Which practice is recommended for ensuring safety while changing lanes?

The recommended practice for ensuring safety while changing lanes is to check mirrors and blind spots. This step is essential because it allows the driver to be fully aware of their surroundings before making a maneuver. Checking mirrors provides visibility of vehicles that may be approaching from behind or are already in adjacent lanes, while observing blind spots ensures that there are no vehicles, motorcycles, or cyclists that may not be visible in the mirrors.

This practice not only helps in preventing collisions but also promotes defensive driving by making the driver aware of all the potential dangers around them. It is crucial for maintaining safety in traffic, particularly in busy or multi-lane environments where other vehicles may be switching lanes as well. This proactive approach to checking both mirrors and blind spots aids in making informed decisions about when it is safe to change lanes.