What action should be taken before changing lanes in traffic?

Before changing lanes in traffic, it is essential to signal and check your mirrors. This action communicates your intention to other drivers, which is crucial for safety. By using your turn signal, you alert those around you that you plan to merge into a different lane, reducing the chances of collisions.

Additionally, checking your mirrors allows you to assess the positions of vehicles in adjacent lanes and determine if it’s safe to change lanes. You are looking for potential hazards, such as vehicles in your blind spot, that may not be visible without this step. This practice promotes awareness of your surroundings and is a fundamental part of defensive driving.

Other options, such as looking at the GPS, checking your speed, or adjusting your seat, do not directly contribute to the safety of changing lanes in traffic. While these actions may be important aspects of driving, they are not specifically related to the critical moment of changing lanes and ensuring it can be done safely.