What is the correct way to check your blind spot?

Looking over your shoulder in the direction you intend to turn or merge is the correct way to check your blind spot. This technique enables you to visually confirm that there are no vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles in areas that mirrors alone may not adequately capture. While rear-view and side mirrors provide valuable information about the environment around your vehicle, they have limitations, especially regarding blind spots located adjacent to and slightly behind your vehicle, which can be hidden from mirrors.

By physically turning your head, you gain a direct line of sight to those areas, allowing you to make a fully informed decision before changing lanes or merging. This practice enhances safety and helps prevent accidents, making it a crucial step in safe driving practices.

The other options do not provide a comprehensive method for checking blind spots. Relying solely on rear-view mirrors or side mirrors can lead to missing critical information, while quickly turning your head side to side does not give you a clear view and can be less effective than taking the time to look specifically over your shoulder.