Which of the following is true when dealing with a blind spot and changing lanes?

• A. Sound the horn to alert them.
• B. Do not linger; check over your shoulder before changing lanes.
• C. Change lanes regardless.
• D. Slow down and stop.

Answer: (B)

When changing lanes, the crucial step is to turn and look over your shoulder into the lane you want to enter. Mirrors don’t show everything, and a vehicle can sit in a blind spot you can’t see, so you shouldn’t linger in that area or try to merge without a clear clearance. The move should be made only when there is a safe gap; using the horn won’t reliably warn hidden drivers and isn’t a substitute for checking the blind spots. Refrain from changing lanes regardless, and avoid slowing down and stopping in traffic—each of those can create unsafe situations. Instead, signal, check mirrors, perform the shoulder check, and merge when it’s safe.