• Learning how to properly change lanes is a vital maneuver.What's the hurry image by andrus from Fotolia.com
  
  Whether it's to avoid an obstacle, make an upcoming turn or overtake a slow-moving vehicle, you will likely find yourself in many situations as a driver in which you need to change lanes. It is important that all drivers know the correct procedures to follow when making lane changes.
  
  

Signal

• Turn on your signal light so that the other drivers around you are aware of your intention to change lanes. Make sure you leave the signal light on the whole time, from when you decide you want to change lanes until you have completed the lane change.
  
  

Check Mirrors

• Look in your rearview mirror and side mirror so you can see what is behind and beside you. Establish where you are going to move and make sure that there is nothing in the way.
  
  

Check Blind Spot

• Look over your shoulder in the direction you are going to change lanes to make sure that there are no cars or obstacles in your way. Verify that there is a gap that is large enough for you to move into without disrupting the flow of traffic. Other drivers should not need to adjust their speed to accommodate your lane change.
  
  

Change Lanes

• After you have ensured that there is plenty of room for you to enter the new lane, turn the wheel slightly and ease your car smoothly into the next lane. It is important that you either maintain your current speed or go slightly faster as you make the lane change. Otherwise, if you slow down, the vehicles that are behind you might not be able react in time and there could be a collision.
  
  Once you are in the new lane, you can turn off your signal light and adjust your speed to the flow of traffic. Be sure to check your mirrors and blind spots again to get properly acquainted with the new driving conditions.