You are preparing to move to the left lane, as pictured below. To spot vehicles moving beside you, it is best to:

• A. Turn your head to the left
• B. Turn your head to the right
• C. Look only in the mirrors
• D. Close your eyes

Answer: (A)

Before moving to another lane on a motorcycle, you must actively check your blind spots by turning your head and looking over your shoulder in the direction you plan to move. Turning your head to the left lets you see vehicles that may be riding alongside or a bit behind you in the left lane, which mirrors alone might not reveal. This quick head check gives you a real sense of how much space you have and whether it’s safe to merge.

Relying only on mirrors isn’t enough because they don’t always show vehicles in your blind spots, especially in lanes next to you. Turning your head to the right wouldn’t help you spot left-side traffic you’re about to enter, and closing your eyes is obviously unsafe. Do a quick shoulder check, then signal and merge when it’s clear.