Check Over Shoulders: A Crucial Step in MTO Canada Driving

Definition

In the context of driving, 'Check Over Shoulders' refers to the action of looking over one's shoulder and checking the blind spots before making any moves or changes on the road. It's a crucial safety measure taught in MTO (Ministry of Transportation Ontario) Canada driving courses.

Significance and Context

'Check Over Shoulders' is a fundamental step in driving, especially in MTO Canada's driving guidelines. This action is pivotal in ensuring safe driving as it helps drivers be aware of their surroundings, particularly the blind spots that aren't visible through rear-view or side mirrors. It's particularly crucial when changing lanes, turning, or merging into traffic.

Real-Life Example

Imagine you're driving on a busy highway and wish to change lanes. Before doing so, you need to look over your shoulder to ensure there's no vehicle in your blind spot. Failing to perform this check could result in a collision, emphasizing the need to 'Check Over Shoulders' consistently.

Detailed Explanation

When learning to drive, new drivers are often taught to rely heavily on their mirrors. However, mirrors don't cover everything; they leave blind spots. The action of checking over your shoulder, also known as a shoulder check or head check, compensates for these blind spots. It's a quick, simple movement that can significantly increase safety on the road.

While performing the 'Check Over Shoulders', you should also be aware of the potential risks associated with taking your eyes off the road ahead. It's important to keep the check brief and to maintain awareness of the traffic situation in front of you.

Conclusion

Checking over your shoulders is an essential part of safe driving, especially as per MTO Canada's driving guidelines. It provides invaluable information about the road's blind spots and can prevent potential collisions. As a driver, ensuring the safety of yourself and others should always be the priority. So, remember to 'Check Over Shoulders' and make the roads safer for everyone!