How to Change Lanes Safely | Defensive Driving for Commercial Drivers

All of the following circumstances are against the law:

Changing lanes without the use of a signal.
– Causing other motorists to make evasive moves, such as swerving out of your way while changing lanes.
– Recklessly weave in and out of traffic.
– Changing lanes while travelling through an intersection.
– Changing lanes through double solid white lines.
– All motorists must move out of the lane closest to an emergency situation on the side of the road, if possible.

Things to Remember

• Check your surroundings: Look around and confirm that there is enough space for your vehicle to fit into the lane. Make sure that other drivers around you are not planning to make the same lane change. Remember to check your mirrors. Repeat this until you feel it is safe to make a lane change.
• Signal your intentions: Get into a good habit of ALWAYS signalling (even when other vehicles are not around). Make sure you are sending clear information to the drivers around you and that the drivers have time to receive and understand your signal.
• Check your blind spot: Turn your head and quickly glance over yourshoulder to ensure there is not another driver in your blind spot.
• Check your surroundings again: The environment around your vehicle can change quickly. Take one more look around before manoeuvring a lane change.
• Move slowly and gradually: Do not make quick abrupt movements as this may startle other drivers. Keep your pace and slowly merge into the lane.