Is Overtaking Only Allowed from the Left Side?
2 Answers
Overtaking is only allowed from the left side. Reasons why overtaking from the right is not allowed: The primary danger of overtaking from the right lies in the blind spot of left-hand drive vehicles. For left-hand drive cars, the driver's right side has a larger blind spot and severely limited visibility, making it easy to overlook vehicles in this position. If the overtaken vehicle fails to promptly notice the violating vehicle on its right and then changes lanes to the right, it can easily collide with the vehicle attempting to "overtake from the right." Precautions for overtaking: Exercise extreme caution when overtaking on highways. Always use the turn signal before overtaking and pass using the overtaking lane. Avoid developing the bad habit of overtaking from the right. After signaling, do not overtake immediately; also pay attention to the road conditions behind you. When overtaking conditions permit, accelerate and maintain a lateral distance of about 1.5 meters from the vehicle in front. After overtaking, leave sufficient distance before merging back into the driving lane to prevent rear-end collisions.
When I first started driving, my instructor repeatedly emphasized in driving school that in right-hand traffic countries, overtaking is usually done from the left. This design is for safety, as the driver's seat is on the left, providing a clear view of the road ahead and blind spots, making it easier to accelerate and return to the lane. However, traffic rules also allow exceptions, such as during congestion or in slow lanes, where the right side may be temporarily used, but only with clear indications and without cutting in. I once tried overtaking from the right on the highway and got a scare—I couldn’t see the blind spot clearly and almost rear-ended another car. Since then, I only overtake from the left, waiting a few extra seconds for safety. I’ve made it a habit to signal, check speed and distance in advance. Remember, safety is more important than speed.