Why is it essential to check your blind spots before changing lanes?

Checking your blind spots before changing lanes is crucial because it ensures that no vehicles or obstacles are present in those areas that your mirrors cannot cover. Blind spots are the regions around your vehicle that are not visible through your rearview and side mirrors. Failing to check these areas can result in a collision with another vehicle or object that may be present, potentially endangering both yourself and other road users.

Being aware of what is in your blind spots enables safer lane changes, allowing you to make informed decisions based on the complete picture of your surroundings. Other aspects, like avoiding distractions within the vehicle or the notion of good driving habits, do reinforce safe driving but do not directly address the specific risks associated with blind spots during lane change maneuvers. Similarly, the statement that blind spots do not affect lane changes is inaccurate, as blind spots are a significant concern that can lead to accidents if not properly checked.