What should you do if you plan to pass another vehicle?

When planning to pass another vehicle, checking your mirrors and blind spots is crucial for ensuring that the maneuver can be executed safely. This action allows you to be aware of your surroundings, including any vehicles that may be behind you or in adjacent lanes that you may not immediately see. By performing these checks, you can identify if there’s sufficient space to make the pass without endangering yourself or others.

Conducting these checks helps to prevent collisions and ensures that you have a clear understanding of traffic conditions before you initiate the passing maneuver. It’s important to verify that the lane you plan to move into is clear and that no vehicles are approaching quickly from behind, which could interfere with your pass.

The other choices involve assumptions or actions that can create risks on the road. Assuming that another driver will make space for you is an unsafe practice, as it relies on the behavior of others without verification. Speeding up to complete a pass can be dangerous and may lead to loss of control or inadequate stopping distance if another vehicle unexpectedly appears. Finally, signaling only after beginning to pass does not provide adequate notice to other drivers about your intentions, increasing the likelihood of miscommunication and potential accidents.