Why is it important to check blind spots when driving?

Checking blind spots is crucial for ensuring safe lane changes or merges. Blind spots are areas around your vehicle that are not visible through your mirrors. When you change lanes or merge, these areas can conceal other vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians that may be in close proximity. By physically turning your head to check these blind spots, you confirm that the path is clear before making any maneuvers. This practice significantly reduces the risk of collisions, enhances overall road safety, and promotes responsible driving behavior.

The other options, while they may relate to safe driving, do not specifically address the critical risk posed by blind spots during lane changes or merges. Monitoring the speed of vehicles behind you, ensuring mirrors are properly adjusted, and maintaining vehicle alignment are important aspects of driving but do not directly pertain to the actions needed to address blind spots.