Before leaving the curb on a two-way street, where should a driver additionally look, besides the side mirror?

When preparing to leave the curb on a two-way street, it is vital for a driver to check over the left shoulder. This action helps ensure that there are no vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians in the blind spot that may not be visible through the mirrors. The left shoulder turn allows the driver to visually confirm that the lane next to them is clear of any potential hazards before merging into traffic.

In urban driving scenarios, where the traffic can be dynamic and frequent, such a visual check reinforces safety. It enables the driver to gather information that mirrors may not capture, ensuring they are fully aware of their surroundings before proceeding.

While checking the rearview mirror and side mirror is essential, those actions alone may not provide a complete view of the area. Additionally, looking at the vehicle's instrument panel is not relevant for assessing external traffic conditions. Therefore, turning over the left shoulder is the best practice to ensure a safe departure from the curb.