December 12, 2025
Author: Canadian Smart Drivers
Lane changes are among the most common driving tasks but also represent the most common driver misunderstanding/risk-taking behaviour by new drivers. Many traffic accidents that occur on Canadian highways result from inadequate or improper lane change manoeuvres, which may be due to poor (or absent) judgement (inattentiveness), missing/neglecting blind spots, or making a sudden/rapid movement.
For new drivers (especially those learning to drive in large metropolitan areas such as London, Ontario), developing the competency to perform lane changes takes time to practice and master.
Furthermore, adverse Canadian weather conditions create an additional layer of complexity in regard to performing lane changes. New drivers will have to be vigilant and decisive while driving in heavy traffic, on multi-lane freeways, during snowy and/or inclement weather, and when driving through temporary construction zone detours. The following basic guide provides a simplified methodology for developing adequate lane change abilities and explains the expected gradual improvement of these skills over time. With proper Beginner driver education in Ontario, confidence and safety develop together.
When a Lane Change Is Necessary
Purposeful Lane Changes
Lane changing should always have a clear purpose. Uncertain drivers have difficulty or cause problems for the organization of traffic while other drivers are aware of and can prepare for your actions through predictable lane changes. Typical lane change behaviour is unclear, especially when merging onto a highway or about to enter another road. Additionally, purposeful lane changes will allow drivers to better predict and avoid hazards.
Avoiding Unnecessary Lane Changes
Making unnecessary lane changes increases your chances of crashing and creates confusion in drivers around you. This is especially true among beginner drivers, who often make the mistake of trying to save time by repeatedly switching lanes (called “lane-hopping” or “weaving”). Being predictable is not only safer, but in heavy traffic, it is often just as effective.
Preparing for a Safe Lane Change
Proper Mirror Adjustment
Correct mirror setup significantly reduces blind spots. Your side mirrors should be angled outward just enough that your vehicle is barely visible. This setup allows vehicles to move from mirror view directly into peripheral vision, minimising unseen areas.
Awareness and Mirror Scanning
Develop a scanning pattern: rear-view mirror, side mirror, then blind spot. This should be done quickly and frequently. Avoid staring at mirrors; brief glances keep you aware without losing focus on the road ahead.
Essential Steps of a Safe Lane Change
Traffic Check
Start by identifying a safe gap in the target lane. Check ahead, behind, and beside your vehicle. If another lane borders your target lane, scan that lane as well to avoid simultaneous lane changes by other drivers.
Signal
Always signal before moving. Use your indicator for at least three flashes. In heavy traffic, signal earlier to give other drivers time to react. Before moving, check your blind spot again to confirm it is clear.
Space
Maintain a following distance of at least two to three seconds. Avoid moving into another driver’s blind spot or changing lanes directly beside another vehicle. Adequate space gives everyone time to respond safely.
Change Lanes Smoothly
Steer gradually into the new lane. Abrupt movements can startle other drivers and reduce your control. Position your vehicle in the tire track that offers maximum space from surrounding traffic.
How to Shoulder Check Properly
Why Shoulder Checks Are Critical
Mirrors do not show everything. Shoulder checks detect vehicles, cyclists, or motorcycles hidden in blind spots and are essential to preventing an improper lane change.
How to Perform an Effective Shoulder Check
Turn your head quickly, keeping the movement brief. The check should take no more than one to two seconds. Keep your steering steady to avoid drifting while looking away.
Speed Management During Lane Changes
Matching Traffic Speed
Adjust your speed to blend smoothly into the new lane. Matching traffic flow prevents sudden braking or acceleration by other drivers.
Avoid Sudden Speed Changes
Do not brake or accelerate sharply mid-manoeuvre. Sudden changes reduce control and increase the risk of rear-end collisions.
Creating and Judging Safe Gaps
Understanding Safe Following Distance
A simple method is the headlight rule: you should see both headlights of the vehicle behind you in your rear-view mirror before moving over. Maintain a four-second following distance whenever possible.
Highway vs. City Lane Changes
Highway speeds require larger gaps due to reduced reaction time. Extra caution is essential when merging, especially on busy Ontario highways.
Steering Control and Lane Positioning
Smooth Steering Inputs
Gentle steering ensures stability. Jerky movements increase the chance of losing control, particularly in wet or icy conditions.
Staying Centered in the Lane
Focus on lane markings and road alignment to avoid drifting during mirror or shoulder checks.
When You Should Avoid Changing Lanes
High-Risk Road Locations
Avoid lane changes near intersections, curves, roundabouts, school zones, and pedestrian-heavy areas where traffic patterns are unpredictable.
Poor Weather Conditions
Snow, ice, rain, and slush significantly reduce traction. In these conditions, only change lanes when absolutely necessary and allow extra space.
Defensive Lane Changing
Staying Aware of Surroundings
Monitor multiple vehicles, not just the one beside you. Anticipate lane changes, braking, or sudden movements from others.
Expecting Unexpected Driver Behaviour
Some drivers speed, block gaps, or fail to signal. Defensive awareness helps you avoid reacting suddenly to unsafe behaviour.
Common Mistakes Beginner Drivers Make
Frequent Lane-Change Errors
Common errors include drifting between lanes, misjudging gaps, forgetting to cancel the signal, skipping shoulder checks, and cutting off other drivers. Recognising these mistakes early helps correct them quickly.
Final Thoughts
Starting out learning the art of lane changing can be daunting. Lane Changing Looks Easier to New Drivers Through Repetition.
As a new driver, you may find it difficult to change lanes when driving for the first time. Consider practicing in lower traffic areas that allow for gradual progression into higher traffic areas. The more you practice changing lanes, the better your skills and confidence will be. Your awareness of timing and the responsibility to be aware of your surroundings will also grow as you practice.
As long as you continue practicing regularly and get structured Beginner Driver Education in Ontario will help you develop the necessary awareness, timing and confidence to safely change lanes, even in adverse weather.
Canadian Smart Drivers provides hands-on training for new drivers that mirrors real-life driving conditions in Canada. Training includes common urban driving conditions (such as city driving and highway driving) as well as adverse weather conditions (such as winter driving). To help new drivers, Canadian Smart Drivers offers a variety of courses for those looking to improve their confidence on the road and with their lane changing skills.