What does "head check" refer to in driving?

A "head check" refers specifically to checking for traffic that may not be easily visible in your side and rearview mirrors. This check involves turning your head to look over your shoulder before changing lanes or merging. It is an important safety measure that helps drivers be aware of their surroundings and any vehicles that may be in their blind spots, thus ensuring a safer driving experience.

While signaling is important when changing lanes, merely using turn signals does not account for potential vehicles that are not visible in the mirrors. Similarly, adjusting mirrors is a significant practice for improving visibility but does not involve the direct action of looking over your shoulder. Parking maneuvers involve different techniques and do not relate to the head check, which is specifically about awareness of others on the road just before making movements that could affect safety.