At intersections: Intersections are one of the most common areas where accidents can occur, so it is crucial to look at the sides of the road before entering an intersection. You need to be aware of any vehicles or pedestrians that are approaching from the left or right and check for any traffic signs, signals, or markings that may affect your right-of-way.
When changing lanes: Before you change lanes, it is essential to look at the sides of the road to ensure that you are not cutting off another vehicle or creating a hazardous situation. This means checking your mirrors and blind spots to make sure that there are no vehicles in your immediate vicinity and that you have a safe amount of space to maneuver.
Passing parked vehicles: When passing parked vehicles, it is important to look at the sides of the road to ensure that there are no pedestrians, cyclists, or other obstacles that may be obscured by the parked vehicles. You should also be aware of any potential hazards such as open doors, protruding objects, or vehicles pulling out from parking spaces.
Making turns: Before you make a turn, it is crucial to look at the sides of the road to ensure that there is no oncoming traffic, pedestrians, or cyclists that you may not be able to see from the front of your vehicle. This is especially important when making left turns, as you need to yield to oncoming traffic.
In inclement weather: Driving in inclement weather conditions such as rain, snow, or fog can drastically reduce your visibility. In these situations, it is even more important to look at the sides of the road to identify potential hazards that may be obscured by the weather conditions. This includes scanning for oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, and any debris or obstacles on the road.
