Changing lanes is one of the most common driving maneuvers, and one of the most underestimated causes of car accidents. A moment of distraction or impatience can lead to serious collisions, injuries, or even fatalities. In South Carolina, improper lane changes are among the leading causes of sideswipe and rear-end crashes.
Learning to change lanes properly is essential for your safety and compliance with state law.
Step-by-Step Guide to Safely Changing Lanes
Even though changing lanes is a common driving move, it requires more than just turning the steering wheel. Every part of the process matters, for both your safety and compliance with South Carolina traffic law.
Check your mirrors
Before you change lanes, glance at your rearview and side mirrors to see how traffic is flowing behind and beside you.
Use your turn signal
A signal of intention to turn or move right or left when required should be given continuously for at least one hundred before turning.
Look over your shoulder
Mirrors can miss what’s in your blind spots. A quick shoulder check ensures there’s no vehicle hiding out of view.
Keep a steady pace
Sudden braking or accelerating during a lane change can surprise other drivers and increase the risk of a crash.
Change lanes smoothly
Once you’ve confirmed it’s safe, steer gently into the new lane and turn off your signal when the move is complete.
Practicing patience, staying alert, and using clear signals helps to ensure every lane change is both safe and legal.
Common Mistakes Drivers Make When Changing Lanes
Many accidents occur because drivers overlook small but crucial details. Some of the most frequent lane-change errors include:
Failing to signal
Not using a turn signal is both illegal and dangerous. It prevents other drivers from anticipating your movement.
Cutting off another driver
Merging too soon after passing a vehicle leaves little reaction time for the other driver.
Ignoring blind spots
Even with advanced mirrors, blind spots remain a major cause of side-impact crashes.
Weaving through traffic
Frequent, aggressive lane changes often result in rear-end or sideswipe collisions.
Distracted driving
Texting, adjusting the GPS, or multitasking while changing lanes significantly increases crash risks.
Recognizing and correcting these mistakes can protect both you and others on the road.
New Left Lane for Passing Only Law in South Carolina
Effective August 15, 2021, S.C. Code § 56-5-1885 limits use of the far-left lane on controlled-access highways, such as interstates and certain state highways. Drivers may use the left lane only to overtake and pass another vehicle. For the first 90 days after enactment, officers issued warnings only; violations now carry a civil fine of up to $25, with no court costs or arrest.
Exceptions include heavy traffic, inclement weather, road hazards, highway design (e.g., preparing for a left exit), and when safe right-lane access is not possible, particularly for commercial vehicles or emergency services.
The law aims to reduce congestion, weaving, tailgating, and road rage by keeping slower traffic to the right.
How Improper Lane Changes Can Lead to Car Accidents
Unsafe lane changes often lead to sideswipe or rear-end collisions. Common causes include cutting off another driver, drifting between lanes, or failing to yield when merging. On high-speed highways, these mistakes can lead to severe injuries such as whiplash, fractures, or traumatic brain injury.
Staying alert, signaling properly, and avoiding aggressive maneuvers dramatically reduce crash risk.
Legal Consequences of Unsafe Lane Changes in South Carolina
Making a bad lane change isn’t just risky; it can also lead to fines, legal trouble, and serious costs if there’s a crash.
You could get a ticket
If you don’t use your turn signal or make a sudden, unsafe move, police can pull you over and fine you up to $25.
You could be blamed for a crash
If the accident was mostly your fault, you might not get any money for your injuries. If it was partly your fault, the amount you get could be reduced.
You could be charged with reckless driving
If you were driving in a really dangerous way, like speeding and weaving, you might face criminal charges. That can mean up to 30 days in jail, a bigger fine, and points on your license. If it happens again, your license could be suspended.
Speak With a South Carolina Car Accident Lawyer Today
Safe lane changes protect everyone, but one reckless driver can still cause serious harm. If you’ve been injured in a lane-change accident anywhere in South Carolina, Stewart Law Offices can help. Our South Carolina car accident lawyer fights for full compensation for medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Call 866-783-9278 or contact us online for a free consultation.
