Before you overtake, turn or change lanes, what should you do first of all?

The first step before overtaking, turning, or changing lanes is to check your rear view mirror. This action is crucial because it allows you to assess the traffic situation behind you, ensuring that it is safe to proceed with your maneuver. By looking in the rear view mirror, you can identify any vehicles that may be approaching from behind at a high speed or that occupy the lane you plan to move into.

This step serves as a precautionary measure to avoid potential collisions and ensures that you have a clear understanding of your surroundings. Once you confirm that it is safe from behind, you can then signal your intentions to other drivers, which is an important follow-up action, but it should not be the first step. Observing for pedestrians is also vital for safety, especially in urban areas, but again, this would typically come after ensuring that the path is clear behind you. By prioritizing checking your rear view mirror first, you are taking a necessary step to maintain safety for yourself and others on the road.