What is the first thing you should do when pulling away from the curb?

The first step when pulling away from the curb is to signal. Signaling is crucial because it communicates to other drivers and pedestrians your intention to move into the driving lane. This helps to ensure that your actions are predictable, reducing the likelihood of accidents. The use of turn signals is a fundamental part of safe driving practices and is designed to keep the flow of traffic smooth and prevent confusion among other road users.

Checking your mirrors and speed are also important steps when preparing to move into traffic, as they ensure that you are aware of the conditions around you. However, signaling takes precedence as you must first notify others of your intended movement before making any further adjustments. Accelerating quickly is typically not advised when merging into traffic from a stationary position, as it could lead to unsafe driving situations.