Arizona Drivers Permit Pactice Exam

When changing lanes, what should you do after checking your side mirrors?

1. Signal your intentions to other drivers

2. Turn your head quickly and look over your shoulder

3. Accelerate before changing

4. Check GPS for instructions

The correct answer is: Turn your head quickly and look over your shoulder

When changing lanes, it is vital to ensure that there is no vehicle in your blind spot, which is where side mirrors may not provide a complete view. Turning your head quickly and looking over your shoulder allows you to visually confirm that the lane you wish to move into is clear of other vehicles, especially those that might be positioned in your blind spot. This physical action enhances your situational awareness and safety during the maneuver, ensuring that you are making an informed decision before proceeding. While signaling your intentions is also an important step in lane changing, the action of checking your blind spot is crucial right before you begin the lane change itself. Accelerating before changing lanes could potentially lead to unsafe driving behavior, and relying on a GPS for instructions does not pertain to the immediate task of ensuring it is safe to change lanes. Thus, the act of turning your head reinforces the importance of safety in this critical driving scenario.