What is the proper way to check for blind spots before merging?

The proper way to check for blind spots before merging involves looking over your shoulder to confirm there are no other vehicles or pedestrians in those areas that your mirrors might not cover. Blind spots are the areas around your vehicle that cannot be seen through standard mirrors, making it essential for drivers to physically turn their heads and visually confirm the space around them is clear. This practice increases safety by ensuring awareness of any potential hazards that may not be visible in mirrors alone.

Using only mirrors, relying solely on backup cameras, or just checking the rearview mirror do not provide a complete picture of the surroundings. Mirrors can miss objects in blind spots due to their limited coverage, and backup cameras are primarily designed for reversing rather than for checking sides or merging into traffic. Thus, looking over the shoulder remains a critical step in ensuring a safe and responsible merging process.