Which behavior is essential for maintaining lane placement and safe lane changes?

Maintaining lane placement and executing safe lane changes rely heavily on the driver's ability to monitor their surroundings effectively. Looking in mirrors frequently is crucial because it allows drivers to be aware of vehicles in adjacent lanes and those approaching from behind. This frequent checking helps in assessing whether it's safe to change lanes and ensures that the driver is not only focused on the road ahead but also aware of the surrounding traffic conditions.

Conversely, while interactions with passengers, using navigation systems, or listening to music can influence the driving experience, they do not actively contribute to the visual awareness necessary for safe lane management. Talking to passengers can create distractions, navigation systems may require attention that diverts focus from immediate surroundings, and listening to music, even at a low volume, can detract from a driver's overall spatial awareness. Thus, those activities do not adequately support the critical need for constant vigilance in mirror monitoring, which is essential for safe driving practices.