What should you do before making a lane change?

Before making a lane change, it is crucial to signal your intent and check your mirrors to ensure that the lane is clear and that you are aware of your surroundings. Signaling alerts other drivers of your intention to change lanes, which promotes safety and helps prevent accidents. Checking mirrors allows you to see vehicles that may be in your blind spot, providing you with a complete picture of the traffic situation around you. This combination of signaling and checking mirrors is essential for making informed and safe decisions while driving.

The other options don't contribute to safe lane changing practices. Speeding up to pass the next vehicle can create dangerous situations, especially if other vehicles are not yielding. Looking straight ahead overlooks the crucial need to be aware of the traffic around you, and driving on the shoulder is not a safe or legal way to improve visibility or change lanes.