Why is checking blind spots important before changing lanes?

Checking blind spots before changing lanes is essential for ensuring that no vehicles are in your way. Blind spots are areas around your vehicle that cannot be seen by your mirrors, which makes them particularly dangerous when changing lanes. If you do not verify these areas, you might not be aware of other vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians that could be present, increasing the risk of a collision.

By looking over your shoulder or using your mirrors effectively, you can significantly minimize the chances of an accident during lane changes. This practice is a crucial aspect of safe driving, reinforcing the importance of being fully aware of your surroundings.

The other options do not align with the primary objective of checking blind spots; for example, showing off driving skills does not contribute to safety, maintaining speed is irrelevant since safety takes precedence over speed during lane changes, and reducing fuel consumption is not inherently connected to the act of checking blind spots.