Free Quote

Blog

How to Change Lanes Safely While Driving

Safely Changing Lanes While Driving

Australian highways are typically divided into marked lanes, providing guidance on vehicle positioning and the rules to follow. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for road safety, as failure to do so can lead to dangerous situations.

Signal Before the Lane Change

Signalling before changing lanes is vital to prevent accidents. It informs other drivers of your intentions, allowing them to adjust accordingly. Effective signalling reduces confusion and enhances traffic flow. It is important to signal even if you believe you are the only vehicle around, as unseen events can pose the greatest risk.

Always Check Your Mirrors

Checking your rearview and side mirrors gives you a comprehensive view of the road and traffic conditions. This awareness helps identify potential hazards, such as vehicles in your blind spots, which you should check before changing lanes. Failing to do so can lead to accidents, as vehicles may be invisible from your direct line of sight. Ensure the lane you intend to switch to is clear of other vehicles.

Always Check for Blind Spots

Blind spots are areas of limited visibility caused by obstructions or other vehicles. These can only be identified through a shoulder check. A significant number of accidents occur due to drivers failing to recognize blind spots before changing lanes. Make it a habit to perform a shoulder check every time you switch lanes.

Method to Change Lanes Safely

  1. Ensure Lane Clarity : Check your mirrors and blind spots to ensure the lane you wish to join is clear.
  2. Maintain Safe Distance : Ensure there is enough space in the target lane for your vehicle. Avoid changing lanes if the gap is too small.
  3. Adjust Speed Accordingly : Match the speed of the traffic in the lane you are moving into. This may require accelerating or decelerating slightly.
  4. Execute the Lane Change : Once it is safe, gently steer your vehicle into the new lane. Avoid making sudden or sharp movements.
  5. Turn Off Your Signals : After successfully changing lanes, turn off your signals to prevent confusion for other drivers.

Additional Key Points

–  Stay Alert and Focused : Avoid distractions while driving, such as phone usage or other activities that divert your attention from the road.

–  Follow Lane Discipline : Stick to your lane and change lanes only when necessary. Unnecessary lane changes can disrupt traffic flow and increase the risk of accidents.

–  Respect Other Drivers : Be courteous to other drivers. If someone signals to change lanes, allow them space to do so if it is safe.

Contact Defensive Driving School for Help

If you need assistance with changing lanes safely, Defensive Driving School can help. We offer comprehensive driving lessons and practical tips to improve your driving skills. Our professional instructors will teach you techniques to ensure safe lane changes on any road.

To learn more, call us at (61) 8937 00000 or book a driving lesson online. We also offer the Safer Drivers Course, designed to equip learner drivers with the skills needed to drive safely once they pass their P’s test.

By following these guidelines and utilizing the resources available at Defensive Driving School, you can enhance your driving skills and ensure a safer driving experience for yourself and others on the road.

Comments (0):

  • No comments yet, but you can be the first

Add comment:

© Defensive Driving School Perth 2020 | Privacy | Site managed by 11 Square Solutions