What does "O" in the SMOG-C acronym represent?

In the context of the SMOG-C acronym, the "O" stands for "Over the shoulder check." This is an essential action when changing lanes or merging because it helps the motorcyclist perceive any vehicles in their blind spots that may not be visible through the mirrors. By physically turning their head to look over their shoulder, a rider can ensure a safer transition into another lane or making a maneuver, thus minimizing the risk of collisions.

The other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of the "O" in SMOG-C. While "Observe," "Open lane," and "Only move after signaling" all relate to safe riding practices, they do not specifically represent the action of checking for unseen vehicles, which is critical for maintaining road safety.