Is it acceptable to honk when overtaking?
3 Answers
Honking is permissible when overtaking. Here are the specific guidelines: Introduction: When overtaking, motor vehicles should activate the left turn signal in advance, alternate between high and low beams, or sound the horn. On roads without a central dividing line or with only one motor vehicle lane in the same direction, the vehicle ahead should reduce speed and move to the right to yield when it receives an overtaking signal from the following vehicle, provided it is safe to do so. The overtaking vehicle should ensure there is sufficient safe distance before passing from the left side of the vehicle ahead. After creating the necessary safe distance from the overtaken vehicle, the overtaking vehicle should activate the right turn signal and return to the original lane. Incorrect practices: Using the horn to "hurry" the elderly, weak, sick, or disabled; honking when entering or exiting hospitals, residential areas, schools, tunnels, or garages; heavy vehicles frequently using loud horns or sirens as warnings; honking at animals; and drivers with "road rage" using the horn to vent frustration.
I've been driving for over twenty years and often encounter situations where overtaking is necessary. Honking the horn when overtaking is definitely feasible, but the key is to use it for safety warnings. For example, if the car ahead is driving too slowly or is distracted, a light tap on the horn can remind them that you intend to pass from the side, avoiding sudden appearances that could cause danger. Especially on mountain roads or winding paths where visibility is limited, a honk can alert the car ahead to vehicles approaching from behind. However, don’t honk excessively, as that only annoys or startles others, increasing the risk of accidents instead. I make it a habit to overtake only after ensuring a safe distance and speed, using the rearview mirror and flashing lights, with the horn as a helpful supplementary tool. Over-reliance on it isn’t good; modern vehicles sometimes come with mufflers, so the horn shouldn’t be too loud. In short, prioritize safety while driving—the horn is a great aid, but use it moderately to make the roads more harmonious.
As a young driver who just got my license, my driving instructor repeatedly emphasized the correct use of the horn during training. Honking when overtaking is permitted and even necessary as a safety measure in certain situations. Traffic regulations state that horns should only be used for warning purposes, such as alerting the car ahead of your position before overtaking to avoid blind-spot collisions. However, strict adherence to the rules is required to prevent misuse, which could disrupt public order or result in fines. I usually drive cautiously and always try flashing my headlights first when an overtaking opportunity arises. Only if the other driver doesn’t respond do I lightly tap the horn, which is far more polite than honking randomly. New drivers often feel nervous, so I recommend practicing judgment timing to ensure the horn serves as a friendly reminder rather than a trigger for conflict. Developing good habits helps everyone maintain road safety.
