When changing lanes or preparing to pass, what should be the first action?

The correct action when changing lanes or preparing to pass begins with using mirrors to check for passing traffic, followed by checking blind spots. This approach is essential because mirrors provide a general view of the vehicles around you, allowing you to assess if it is safe to change lanes. However, mirrors do not capture everything, particularly vehicles that may be in your blind spots, which are areas not visible through the mirrors.

Conducting both checks ensures that you are fully aware of your surroundings and can make an informed decision. By first looking in your mirrors, you can identify any nearby vehicles, and then by checking your blind spots, you confirm that there are no vehicles that could pose a danger during your lane change. This multi-step approach enhances safety and reduces the risk of collisions.

The other options either skip important checks or reduce awareness of the road. Relying solely on signaling without checking can lead to dangerous situations, as does focusing exclusively on pedestrians. Skipping the blind spot check compromises safety, making it crucial to adopt a comprehensive strategy before any lane change or passing maneuver.