What should riders do before executing a lane change?

Before executing a lane change, performing a head check is crucial for ensuring safety on the road. A head check involves turning your head to look over your shoulder to check your blind spot for any vehicles or obstacles that may not be visible in your mirrors. This action helps riders gain a full awareness of their surroundings, allowing them to make an informed decision when changing lanes.

It’s important to acknowledge that simply looking in mirrors is not enough, as blind spots exist where other vehicles may be positioned outside of your direct line of sight. A head check significantly enhances safety by confirming that the lane is clear before proceeding, thereby reducing the risk of collisions with other road users.

While signaling and maintaining speed are essential components of the lane change process, they are most effective when preceded by a thorough awareness of the area. This ensures that the rider can safely merge into the desired lane without endangering themselves or others.