Changing lanes is one of the most common maneuvers we perform when driving on the road, whether it’s to pass a slower vehicle, take an upcoming exit, or change directions at an intersection. However, a poorly executed lane change can also be one of the more dangerous driving maneuvers if not done correctly. As a seasoned driver and car expert, I want to share some of my top tips for how to change lanes safely based on my years of experience on the road.
Proper lane changes take awareness, planning, and precision. Following the basic steps and avoiding common pitfalls can help ensure a smooth and safe lane change each time. As with any driving technique, it does take practice to get the motions and checks down pat. But with a little focus on safety each time, it will become second nature in no time.
Everyone’s goal when getting behind the wheel should be to reach your destination safely. So use these lane change tips to feel confident in your ability to share the road responsibly with others. Let’s get to it!
How to change lanes safely while driving
1.Signal the Lane Change
The turn signal is your key tool for communicating your intentions to other drivers. Get in the habit of signaling every lane change, no matter how far in advance you plan to move over. Other drivers will appreciate the heads up so they can anticipate and adjust accordingly if needed.
I like to signal at least 3 seconds before starting my lane change. This gives enough notice without signaling too early and possibly confusing others. Remember, your turn signal is not a request – it’s informing others of what you will be doing. So make sure to actually execute the lane change after signaling your intent.
2.Check Your Rearview and Side Mirrors
The goal is to get a full picture of what’s around you before changing lanes. First check your rearview mirror to see if it’s clear to move over behind you. Then take a quick glance at both side mirrors to view traffic in your blind spots. This step is all about situational awareness and making sure no one is dangerously close when you begin your lane change.
I always do a quick mirror check right when I activate my turn signal, then another right before I start to change lanes just to confirm it’s still clear. Remember, just because it was clear a few seconds ago does not mean it still is when you actually maneuver. Always re-check right before moving over.
3.Check Your Blind Spot
This step is crucial for safety – you must physically turn your head and check over your shoulder to view your blind spot. Mirrors have their limits, and another vehicle could be hiding there that you can’t see otherwise. I make it a habit to do a head check in the direction I’m moving each and every time I change lanes, no exceptions.
It only takes a second to peek behind you. Inconvenient yes, but it could literally save your life by preventing an accident. I’ve seen many close calls happen because someone didn’t bother doing a simple head check. Don’t be that driver – protect yourself and others by thoroughly clearing the blind spot zone.
4.Switch Lanes
Once you’ve signaled, checked mirrors and performed a head check…it’s time to smoothly change lanes. Accelerate or decelerate gradually as needed to match the pace of traffic in the target lane. Use your mirrors and peripheral vision to guide the vehicle over.
A jerky, abrupt lane change can surprise others and lead to issues. So take your time flowing into the lane change. Also, don’t cut people off or force your way in – wait for an appropriate gap where you’re not obstructing traffic or pushing anyone out of the way. Courtesy and patience are key to safely merging or changing lanes.
5.Turn Off Your Signals
Just like you use them to signal an impending lane change, remember to cancel your turn signals when the maneuver is complete. Other drivers rely on those signals to anticipate what you’re doing. Leaving blinkers on can confuse people into thinking you plan to change lanes again soon.
Flicking off signals should be as automatic as turning them on. Get in the habit of hunting for that signal cancel button after every lane change or turn to confirm they’ve turned off. Out of sight, out of mind – don’t let signals run indefinitely after the move is finished.
6.Plan Your Route in Advance
The smoothest lane changes come from a bit of pre-planning. When possible, check your maps or directions beforehand to know what’s up ahead – any turns, exits or lane adjustments you need to make. That way you can plan to get in the proper lane well before your maneuver is needed.
Look for landmark signs or major roads as hints for when to prepare your lane change. For example, if you see the upcoming exit is in half a mile, don’t wait until the last second to swerve over. Positioning yourself in the correct lane ahead of time allows a more controlled and relaxed lane change versus last-minute squeezes.
Pay attention to flows of traffic too. Heavier lanes usually move at a more consistent pace. If traffic seems sporadic in the lane you currently occupy, consider getting over sooner rather than dealing with erratic vehicles around you. Advanced planning makes for more peaceful driving overall.
What NOT to Do When Changing Lanes
I’d also like to briefly discuss some of the biggest “no-nos” that can compromise safety when changing lanes:
1.Forgetting to Activate/Deactivate Turn Signals
As mentioned before, signaling is absolutely crucial for communication. Yet it’s surprising how many people either skip signaling altogether or leave blinkers on for miles after their maneuver. Making intent clear is a courtesy to others, so always use those signals properly!
2.Wrong Setting On Mirrors
It amazes me how many mirrors I see pointed all sorts of ways except where they need to be – straight back on the side lanes. Take a minute to adjust mirrors for best blind spot coverage. This simple tweak can make all the difference in avoiding dangerous blind spots.
3.Slowing Down Before Changing Lanes
Unless there’s an obstruction ahead slowing traffic, tapping the brakes excessively before or during a lane change is troubling. It disrupts traffic flow and can confuse fellow motorists. Signal, check fully, then execute the lane change smoothly matching speeds when possible.
4.Moving out too early
On a similar note, drifting halfway into the next lane while still deciding if it’s actually clear to change can lead to issues. Either fully commit after doing checks, or hold position if not fully cleared yet. Lingering halfway invites incidents.
A Professional Safety Tip for a Proper Lane Change : Safety First
There you have my top professional driving tips for performing safe and conscientious lane changes each time you hit the road. It does require focus and consistent good habits. But following all the mirror and blind spot checks religiously will soon become second nature, allowing your full attention on traffic situations.
Remember, driving is shared responsibility. We all want to reach our destinations in one piece. So do your part to communicate clearly with signals, look out for others, and avoid dangerous behaviors. With a bit of pre-planning and focus on safety fundamentals like these tips per every lane change, you’ll be well on your way to sharing the road responsibly for many miles to come. Happy and safe motoring!
FAQs
1.How to safely change lanes?
The key steps to safely change lanes are to signal well in advance, check your mirrors and do a shoulder check to fully clear your blind spots, match the speed of traffic in the new lane, and smoothly maneuver into the lane without braking excessively. Proper planning and positioning is also important for safe lane changes.
2.How do you change lane perfectly?
To change lanes perfectly, you need to follow all the necessary steps carefully – signal early, thoroughly check your mirrors and blind spots by looking over your shoulder, match the speed of traffic smoothly without braking when possible, and commit fully to the lane change maneuver. Good mirrors adjustment and planning ahead also help achieve a flawless lane change.
3.What’s the most important step in safely changing lanes?
The most important step is fully clearing your blind spots by doing a shoulder check. Even if it looks clear in your mirrors, another vehicle could be hiding in your blind spot that you wouldn’t see otherwise. A quick head turn to check over your shoulder is absolutely critical for safety before any lane change.
4.What are 2 common mistakes people make when changing lanes?
Two very common mistakes are:
1) Not using turn signals or leaving them on after the lane change is complete. Clear communication with signals helps prevent accidents.
2) Failure to fully check blind spots by looking over the shoulder. Relying only on mirrors leaves dangerous blind spots unchecked.
