What should be paid attention to when overtaking?
2 Answers
The following are the precautions when overtaking: 1. Before overtaking: The driver should fully understand the acceleration performance of the vehicle. After ensuring that the horn, turn signals, headlights and other components are working properly, choose a straight, wide road with good visibility, no obstacles on either side, and no oncoming vehicles within 150m ahead. Overtaking can only be performed under the premise of safety. Do not overtake blindly regardless of subjective and objective conditions. Comply with the provisions of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Overtaking is strictly prohibited at dangerous sections such as intersections, steep slopes, sharp curves, etc., in bad weather such as rain or fog, when the vehicle ahead indicates a left turn, U-turn, or is overtaking another vehicle, and at places with no-overtaking signs. 2. During overtaking: Increase the speed, approach the left side of the vehicle being overtaken, shorten the distance from the vehicle being overtaken (following distance not more than 20m), turn on the left turn signal and honk the horn (use high-low beam switching at night) to notify the vehicle ahead. After confirming that the vehicle ahead yields or makes a yielding gesture, turn the steering wheel slightly to the left and maintain a certain lateral distance from the vehicle being overtaken. 3. After overtaking: Continue driving in the overtaking lane. After overtaking the vehicle by 20m~30m, turn on the right turn signal, return to the original lane, and turn off the turn signal.
I've been driving for decades, and overtaking requires a comprehensive assessment. First, check the rearview mirror for any cars closely following, and scan the blind spots—no sudden moves. Using the turn signal is a must; after signaling, wait a few seconds to give the trailing car time to react, just like saying hello. Estimate the distance and speed to ensure there's enough space to overtake safely—no forcing your way in. Overtaking on curves or hilltops is absolutely out of the question—poor visibility increases the risk of a collision. When overtaking, accelerate smoothly—no sudden throttle slams or hard braking that could make the car wobble and scare others. After completing the maneuver, return to your lane steadily and signal to avoid cutting in abruptly. On rainy days with slippery roads, be extra cautious—if you can, just follow the car ahead and wait. Safety always comes first. Remember to check your car's condition—older cars with weaker performance require even more care. Overtaking isn’t a race; better to lose three seconds than risk a second. Protect yourself and consider others too.
