Which Light to Use When Overtaking?

[DeBrooke]

When overtaking, it is essential to activate the left turn signal. This action informs surrounding vehicles of your intention. The flashing light from the left turn signal alerts the vehicle behind, indicating your intention to overtake. In the rearview mirror of the vehicle ahead, the blinking light is more likely to catch their attention. Activating the Left Turn Signal: Push the light lever on the left side of the steering wheel downward to turn it on. The car's light switch is located on the left side of the steering wheel. Rotate the button on the lever to activate the corresponding lights, including high beams, low beams, fog lights, etc. Specific Light Functions: Headlights: The combination headlights at the front of the car primarily serve lighting and signaling purposes. They illuminate the road ahead, enabling safe driving at night. Taillights: The combination taillights at the rear of the car also serve lighting and signaling purposes. Turn Signals: These indicate left or right turns to other road users and are legally required to be amber. License Plate Light: This illuminates the license plate, making it visible at night. Here are specific precautions when overtaking: Avoid Forced Overtaking: Do not force an overtake if the vehicle ahead does not yield or slow down. Insufficient Safe Distance: Do not squeeze or force the overtaken vehicle to yield. Smooth Driving: Maintain a steady overtaking path. Early Lane Change: Move into the left lane in advance before overtaking and delay returning to the right lane afterward. Obstacles: If an obstacle is detected on the left with insufficient lateral space, decelerate immediately and abort the overtake. Check Rearview Mirror: On highways, the behavior of vehicles behind often dictates your next move. Therefore, the first step in overtaking is to check the rearview mirror to fully understand the traffic situation behind. Honk or Flash Lights to Alert the Vehicle Ahead: Prevent the vehicle ahead from changing lanes during overtaking by ensuring clear communication. Drivers are less likely to change lanes if they know another vehicle is overtaking. Speed Up When Overtaking: Ensure sufficient speed during overtaking. If the vehicle is too slow, it may be necessary to decelerate and return to the regular lane. Exercise Caution Around Large Trucks: Be extra vigilant around large trucks due to their numerous blind spots and significant weight, as accidents involving them can be severe.