What should you do before returning to your lane after passing another vehicle?

Before returning to your lane after passing another vehicle, it is crucial to signal your intention. Signaling serves as a communication tool with other drivers on the road, indicating that you plan to move back into your original lane. This is important for safety and helps to prevent accidents by allowing other drivers to be aware of your actions, especially those in adjacent lanes or behind you.

These signals alert surrounding vehicles to your movement, helping to create a safer driving environment. It is a critical practice in defensive driving, ensuring that you adhere to the rules of the road and promote awareness among all drivers. Neglecting to signal can lead to confusion and potential collisions, as other drivers may not anticipate your lane change.

While checking for oncoming traffic, accelerating, or maintaining speed could be related considerations when changing lanes, signaling is the primary action that should be taken to safely communicate your maneuvers to others on the road.