We all know that changing lanes is part of everyday driving.
But what many drivers don’t realize is that this simple action—when done carelessly—can easily cause a serious accident.
According to automotive expert Dmitry Slavnov, most people aren’t paying enough attention to what’s really at stake when they switch lanes.
Why Lane Changes Are Riskier Than You Think
Slavnov, speaking in a recent interview with Pravda.Ru, explained that lane changes are actually among the most dangerous moves a driver can make on the road.
The issue? A mix of carelessness and poor preparation.
“Changing lanes is one of the most accident-prone maneuvers,” he said.
“The number one mistake drivers make is skipping the safety checks before moving over.”
It All Starts With the Mirrors
One of the biggest problems, Slavnov pointed out, is that many drivers either don’t check their mirrors—or they have them set up all wrong.
“You’d be surprised how many people just glance or don’t check at all,” he noted.
“If your mirrors aren’t adjusted properly, you might miss someone right in your blind spot.”
The solution is simple but often ignored: always make sure your mirrors are properly aligned and give them a proper check before attempting a lane change.
Think of Others Before You Move
Another crucial point Slavnov made is about awareness of surrounding traffic.
Drivers often forget that their move doesn’t happen in isolation—it affects everyone around them.
“Before you do anything, you need to confirm that your lane change doesn’t create a hazard for anyone else,” he said.
“That means checking all mirrors, being aware of nearby cars, and making sure it’s actually safe.”
Don’t Forget Who Has the Right of Way
One of the most overlooked mistakes? Failing to yield to cars going straight.
“We always have to yield to the vehicles continuing in their lanes,” Slavnov reminded.
“People assume they can just slide over when there’s space, but that can easily lead to a collision if someone’s coming up fast.”
A Small Mistake With Big Consequences
At the end of the day, Slavnov’s message is simple but serious: changing lanes might seem easy, but it comes with real risks.
Taking a few extra seconds to check your mirrors and think about what’s around you can make all the difference.
“It’s about safety, not speed,” he said. “And it starts with awareness.”
