Texas DMV Written Driving Practice Test

Checking your mirrors and blind spots is essential before merging into traffic because it helps you assess the position and speed of other vehicles around you. This action allows you to determine if it is safe to enter the lane and ensures that you are aware of any vehicles that may be in your blind spots, which are areas not visible through standard mirrors. This practice significantly reduces the risk of collisions and enhances overall road safety.

The other options are not advisable actions when merging into traffic. Merging without signaling can create confusion and increase the risk of accidents as other drivers may not anticipate your movements. Increasing your speed drastically can be dangerous and may not be necessary; you should match the speed of the traffic you are merging into without sudden accelerations. Using your cellphone for directions is unsafe as it distracts you from the road and the vehicles around you, impairing your ability to merge safely.