To ensure a motorcyclist is not in your blind spot before changing lanes, you should?

• A. Turn on your hazard lights
• B. Glance over your shoulder
• C. Check your rearview mirror only
• D. Signal then accelerate

Answer: (B)

Before changing lanes, you must check your blind spots where a motorcycle can hide from your mirrors. Glancing over your shoulder toward the lane you plan to enter lets you see riders who may not appear in the rearview or side mirrors. This quick shoulder check gives you a real-time view of what’s beside and slightly behind you, reducing the chance of a close call or collision with a motorcycle.

Hazard lights aren’t a signal for lane changes and can confuse other drivers; relying only on the rearview mirror may miss a motorcycle lurking in the blind spot; and signaling then accelerating into the next lane is risky and can surprise nearby riders. Do a smooth sequence: check your mirrors, perform a quick shoulder check toward the lane you’re moving into, signal, then move when it’s safe.