Is it allowed to overtake from the right side on urban roads?
3 Answers
Overtaking from either side is not permitted on urban roads. Under normal circumstances, overtaking should be done from the left side. Road arrangement restrictions: In China's road arrangement, for a single direction, the order from left to right is motor vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians. Different types of vehicles result in varying levels of congestion on the road. Generally, the left side is less congested. The driver's seat in a car is positioned on the left side. The left rearview mirror is easier to use than the right one, providing a better field of vision, making it more convenient to observe road and traffic conditions, thus ensuring safer overtaking. Correct method for overtaking: Before overtaking, it is essential to observe the condition of the lane you intend to use, the traffic situation in the adjacent lane, and the traffic ahead of the vehicle you plan to overtake. To achieve greater acceleration in the shortest possible time, you should downshift first and then quickly press the accelerator to speed up. The purpose of downshifting to increase speed is because the throttle response is faster in lower gears, allowing for quicker acceleration.
Overtaking on the right side of urban roads? From my years of driving experience, it's absolutely unacceptable. Traffic rules clearly state that overtaking must be done in the left lane, and overtaking on the right is a major taboo. I remember once seeing a novice driver do this in the city, almost scraping a bicycle on the sidewalk, which scared the rider into shouting curses. Not only is it dangerous, but it also easily leads to accidents, and the police impose hefty fines if caught. Even worse, visibility on the right is poor, with unexpected obstacles often lurking in nearby alleys or bus stops. I advise everyone to develop the habit of patiently waiting for an opportunity on the left, using turn signals when overtaking, and ensuring safety before proceeding. Especially during urban traffic congestion, resist the urge to rush—one violation could lead to lifelong regret. Playing it safe is always the right move.
As a parent who drives my kids to and from school every day, I'm especially cautious about city driving. Overtaking on the right? Never attempt it! The law requires overtaking to be done on the left, and trying it on the right is far too risky. If you accidentally hit a pedestrian or an electric bike by the roadside, the consequences could be disastrous. When my child is in the car, I'm even more careful—I'd rather wait a few extra minutes than take any risks. Statistics also show that many accidents stem from such reckless behavior, as overtaking from the side can easily lead to loss of control. Safety comes first, so I recommend drivers take the time to learn traffic rules and develop the instinct to overtake on the left. Before overtaking, always check your mirrors to ensure there are no vehicles in your blind spots. This way, you not only follow the rules but also protect your entire family.
