Which side should you overtake from when driving a motor vehicle?
2 Answers
Overtaking must be done from the left side. Below are relevant introductions about overtaking: 1. Basic actions of overtaking: The technique of overtaking can be summarized as: accelerate and merge into the adjacent lane, accelerate straight to pass the vehicle being overtaken until a safe distance is reached, then merge back into the original lane. The purpose of overtaking is to achieve quick passage. 2. Taboos of overtaking: It is best not to overtake in congested road conditions because the slow speed is not conducive to completing the merging and accelerating actions, and even if overtaking is completed, the purpose of quick passage will not be achieved. For two-way roads with two lanes, it is best not to overtake when going uphill, especially when approaching the top of the slope. Due to the obstruction of the slope top, oncoming traffic cannot be seen, creating a visual blind spot, so overtaking should not be attempted. Similarly, on such roads, if encountering a large curve that blocks the line of sight, do not overtake before entering the curve. Wait until after passing the curve when the view is clear, and at least the oncoming traffic can be seen before attempting to overtake.
I've often pondered this question on the road! Our country clearly stipulates that overtaking must be done from the left, as written in the Road Traffic Law. The principle is actually quite simple—since the driver's seat is on the left, visibility is better from that side. My twenty years of driving experience have taught me one thing: never overtake from the right—it's way too dangerous! Especially when squeezing past large trucks, the driver can't even see you in their rearview mirror. Last month, I witnessed a car overtaking from the right and crashing into the guardrail—all to save a few seconds, but in the end, the time spent waiting for the tow truck was enough to overtake ten cars. On highways, it's even more crucial to remember: before overtaking, first signal left, check the rearview mirror, ensure there's enough safe distance, then change lanes. After overtaking, remember to return to your original lane. Those who overtake from the emergency lane are truly risking their lives!
