What is a safe practice when merging back into traffic from a bus stop?

When merging back into traffic from a bus stop, turning on the left signal and checking mirrors ensures that you are aware of your surroundings and that it is safe to merge. This action is crucial for several reasons.

First, signaling your intentions to other road users is a fundamental aspect of safe driving. By activating the turn signal, you communicate to drivers behind and alongside you that you plan to change lanes or merge into traffic. This helps to prevent misunderstandings and collisions.

Secondly, checking mirrors is vital for situational awareness. It allows you to monitor the flow of traffic in your blind spots and see approaching vehicles. This careful observation ensures that you can safely enter the road without cutting off other vehicles or putting yourself in a hazardous situation.

The other options do not adequately promote safety when merging back into traffic. Disengaging the parking brake and turning right without signaling or checking surroundings could lead to a dangerous scenario, as you might not be aware of incoming vehicles. Accelerating quickly into traffic without ensuring a clear path is reckless and can create dangerous situations for both the bus and surrounding vehicles. Using the horn to alert traffic is also not considered a safe or appropriate method for merging; it may startle other drivers rather than ensuring safety.