In your mirror, you see a car approaching from the rear. The next time you check your mirror, you do not see the car. You wish to change lanes. You should:

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of ensuring safety before making any maneuvers. When you initially see a car approaching in your mirror and then it disappears on your subsequent check, it’s crucial to consider that the vehicle could have moved into your blind spot. Blind spots are areas around your vehicle that cannot be directly seen through mirrors, and they can pose serious risks during lane changes.

By waiting to change lanes until you confirm the car isn’t in your blind spot, you are prioritizing both your own safety and the safety of other drivers on the road. This cautious approach is fundamental in driving, specifically with larger vehicles that may have significant blind spots. It reinforces the practice of thorough observation and awareness of your surroundings, which is essential for responsible driving, especially as a commercial driver.

Choosing to ease into the other lane very slowly may seem like a compromise for safety, but it does not conclusively confirm the vehicle's position. Additionally, assuming the car left the road is imprudent without proper verification, as it increases the risk of an accident. The best practice is to ensure that you have clear visibility, including checking your blind spots, before making any lane changes.