Final answer:
Visual checks are made before lane changes to cover blind spots not visible in mirrors. Diverging mirrors in vehicles offer a wider field of view but can distort distance perception. Safety in traffic situations requires assessing both the distance and speed of vehicles.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reason for making visual checks to the left or right before changing lanes is because it covers areas not visible in the mirrors, commonly referred to as blind spots. Mirrors are essential for drivers to observe the road behind them, but they have limitations.
Diverging mirrors, or convex mirrors, are often used for rear-view mirrors in vehicles because they allow the driver to see a wider field of view compared to flat mirrors. However, the main disadvantage of using diverging mirrors is that they make objects appear smaller and farther away than they are, which can sometimes mislead distance judgment.
For clarity, while the formation of a double image in reflections from glass is due to light reflecting off different surfaces, that phenomenon isn't directly related to the use of mirrors in vehicles.
Security mirrors are also convex, providing a larger field of view to improve safety and surveillance. When estimating the safety of crossing a road, for example, you must consider the distance of an oncoming car and your ability to cross before it reaches you. Even if a car is 28 meters away, it's important to factor in the car's speed and your walking speed to ensure it is safe to cross.