How should a driver check their blind spots?

To effectively check blind spots, it is essential for a driver to look over their shoulder before changing lanes. This practice involves turning your head to directly observe areas that are not visible through mirrors. Mirrors can provide a good overview of surrounding traffic, but they cannot capture everything, particularly the areas directly adjacent to the vehicle where other vehicles or objects may be present.

Looking over the shoulder allows drivers to spot vehicles or obstacles that might be in those blind zones, which could otherwise lead to dangerous situations if a lane change is made without confirming those areas are clear. This method significantly enhances driver awareness and safety.

Other methods, like using mirrors exclusively or relying solely on technology such as sensors, may not be sufficient. Mirrors can have blind spots themselves, and while sensors are a helpful assistance feature, they are not foolproof. Additionally, solely checking the rearview mirror does not account for the areas beside the car, further underscoring the importance of the direct visual check by turning the head.