Why is it important to check your blind spots before changing lanes?

Checking your blind spots before changing lanes is crucial for ensuring that no vehicles or cyclists are near you. Blind spots are areas around your vehicle that cannot be seen in your mirrors, and they can conceal other road users who are positioned close to your vehicle. By checking these areas, you can prevent potential collisions, ensuring the safety of both yourself and others on the road.

While the presence of pedestrians and the need to avoid distractions are important considerations in safe driving, the act of checking blind spots is primarily focused on identifying other vehicles and cyclists that may be in close proximity and not visible in your mirrors. Fuel efficiency is generally unrelated to this specific maneuver; rather, it pertains to maintaining optimal driving habits. Thus, recognizing the presence of other road users is the key reason for checking blind spots before changing lanes.