Change Lane to the Left or Right?
2 Answers
It depends on which lane you are originally in. If you are in the general driving lane and are prompted to change lanes, you should move to the left lane (the overtaking lane). If you are already in the overtaking lane and are prompted to change lanes, you should move to the right lane, back to the driving lane. Lane Change Observation: Observe and assess the traffic flow behind, beside, and in the lane you intend to change into. After confirming it is safe, turn on the turn signal and check again via the rearview mirror to ensure no vehicles are overtaking on either side. Confirm that the lane you are about to enter allows for a safe distance. Without obstructing the normal flow of traffic in that lane, steer smoothly into the desired lane and then turn off the turn signal. Lane Change Precautions: Yield to vehicles already in the lane you are entering. Avoid frequent lane changes. Do not change more than two lanes at once.
After driving on the road for so many years, safety always comes first when changing lanes. Whether turning left or right, I always turn on the turn signal for three to five seconds before starting, letting the cars behind know my intention. Then I scan the rearview mirror to confirm there are no vehicles closely following, and quickly glance over my shoulder to check the blind spot—when changing to the left lane, I mainly focus on the left lane to prevent vehicles from rushing out from the side; when changing to the right lane, I pay more attention to the non-motorized lane or pedestrians on the roadside. The direction I choose depends on the road conditions: on highways, overtaking faster vehicles by moving left is common and can save time; in the city, moving right to prepare for a turn or parking is safer. In rainy or foggy weather, I’d rather slow down and stay right than make a left turn easily, as poor visibility increases risks. Developing a habit of smooth operation, avoiding sudden steering, helps prevent rear-end collisions or skidding—this is a fundamental skill for every driver to stay safe. Every time I drive, I remind myself to slow down and think.
