When thinking of changing lanes, what is the first action you should take?

The first action you should take when considering a lane change is to signal your intention. Signaling is a critical step in the process because it alerts other drivers of your intention to change lanes, thereby promoting safety on the road. By using your turn signal, you communicate your actions to those around you, which can help prevent accidents and ensure a smoother transition from one lane to another.

It's important to establish this communication first before checking your mirrors or changing lanes. While looking in your mirrors is crucial to ensure that the lane is clear, without signaling first, other drivers may not be prepared for your movement, which can lead to confusion or dangerous situations. Similarly, changing lanes immediately or accelerating without signaling may create significant risks on the road, as other drivers will not be aware of your intentions. Therefore, signaling signifies respect for traffic laws and consideration for other road users, making it the essential first step in the lane-changing process.