Why Should a Cross-Table (Dorsal Decubitus)lateral Projection of the Cervical

Why should a cross-table (dorsal decubitus) lateral projection of the cervical spine be performed and evaluated by a physician before flexion and extension lateral projections are attempted?

A) To evaluate trauma to the cervical spine
B) To check for foreign bodies in the esophagus and/or trachea
C) To check for the proper exposure factors
D) To evaluate ligamentous injury