Is overtaking allowed on elevated roads?
3 Answers
Overtaking is permitted on elevated roads. On elevated roads with two or more lanes, overtaking can be performed as long as the lane markings are dashed. Elevated roads are constructed above ground level and are part of the road system, existing in both urban areas and highways as needed. Additional Information: Introduction to Elevated Roads: Elevated roads are primarily built to increase driving speed or to address safety concerns at intersections with railways or pedestrian pathways. They do not have traffic lights along their entire length and are connected to ground-level roads via ramps, using grade separations to avoid intersections with surface roads. In urban areas, to meet the need for rapid access to central districts, some roads spanning dozens of kilometers are entirely designed as elevated roads.
After driving for so many years, I pay special attention to traffic rules. Overtaking on elevated roads is completely allowed but with certain restrictions. According to traffic regulations, overtaking is permitted as long as it's not in solid line areas, curves, hilltops, tunnels, or places with no-overtaking signs. There are three key points to note: signal with the turn indicator for at least three seconds in advance and check the blind spot in the rearview mirror; overtaking must be completed in the left lane—never overtake from the right; and after overtaking, maintain sufficient distance from the overtaken vehicle before merging back. The speed limit on elevated roads is usually 80-100 km/h—do not exceed it, or it will be considered dangerous driving. The safest approach is to choose straight and wide sections for overtaking, avoiding curves and on/off-ramp areas on elevated roads, ensuring both efficiency and safety.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, overtaking on elevated roads requires skill. I usually glance at the rearview mirror and check the distance to the car ahead before overtaking, only considering passing when the car in front is significantly below the speed limit. I prefer using the leftmost fast lane to complete the maneuver swiftly and avoid hesitation. Elevated roads have narrow lanes with significant body sway, so it's essential to grip the steering wheel firmly. On rainy days when the road is slippery, it's best to avoid overtaking as the risk increases dramatically. Additionally, strategies differ between large trucks and passenger cars—sedans are more suitable for quick overtakes compared to heavy vehicles. Experience has taught me not to slow down immediately after overtaking; instead, maintain speed and gradually return to the middle lane to avoid disrupting the traffic behind—a detail many beginners overlook.
