How can you check for a vehicle in your blind spot when changing lanes?

To check for a vehicle in your blind spot when changing lanes, turning and glancing over your shoulder is the most effective method. This technique allows you to visually confirm that there are no vehicles or obstacles in the area that your mirrors cannot capture. Blind spots are typically located directly behind your vehicle and to the sides, making them areas that standard mirrors may not cover adequately. By turning your head and using your eyes, you can spot any vehicle that might be hidden from view, ensuring a safer lane change.

Using mirrors only is insufficient because blind spots can often elude mirror rotation, resulting in a lack of complete awareness of surrounding traffic. Checking dashboard indicators might provide useful information about lane-keeping or signaling but does not offer a direct view of your blind spot. Lastly, looking through the rear window isn’t practical for monitoring blind spots beside your vehicle, as it doesn’t provide the necessary perspective on vehicles that may be adjacent or overtaking you. Thus, glancing over your shoulder is the most reliable way to verify if it's safe to change lanes.