Which Side to Overtake From?
4 Answers
Overtaking should be done from the left side for the following reasons: different driving methods, obstructed visibility when overtaking from the right, which compromises safety, while the left side provides better visibility, requiring only a slight deviation to the left to observe the road ahead. Precautions for overtaking include: 1. Choose the right moment to overtake, when there are fewer vehicles around or the road is relatively flat; 2. Turn on the left turn signal in advance to alert the vehicle behind, and return to the normal lane promptly after overtaking; 3. Use the horn appropriately to notify the vehicle ahead of your intention to overtake and to yield; 4. Use high beams or hazard lights to alert oncoming vehicles for safety; 5. Avoid forced overtaking.
This issue deserves a thorough explanation. Having driven for over a decade, I've witnessed numerous reckless overtaking behaviors on the road. The correct method is always overtaking from the left, especially on two-way roads. Why? The left side provides better visibility, allowing you to see more of the road ahead. Moreover, most drivers are accustomed to left-side overtaking - suddenly appearing from the right can be extremely dangerous as others might not react in time. Always use your turn signal before overtaking, check mirrors to confirm a safe distance, and complete the maneuver decisively. Hesitating or prolonging the process increases accident risks. On highways, strict adherence is crucial - consecutive lane changes are a major taboo, so plan your route in advance. Remember, safety always comes first. It's never worth risking lives just to save a few minutes.
When I first learned to drive, my instructor repeatedly emphasized this: you must overtake from the left side! Many beginners tend to squeeze through from the right when they see space, but the blind spot on the right is terrifyingly large. A bicycle could suddenly swerve out from the roadside, or the car ahead might abruptly turn right, leaving you no time to react. Once, I witnessed someone overtaking on the right and crashing into a suddenly opened taxi door—it was a horrifying scene. On highways, extra caution is needed: the left lane is the fast lane, while the right lane is often blocked by large trucks. Remember the three essentials of overtaking: first, signal for at least three seconds; then, accelerate to overtake; and finally, ensure sufficient distance before merging back into your original lane. Don’t imitate those reckless veteran drivers who weave through the right side—it’s an accident waiting to happen.
The traffic rules actually state this very clearly - overtake on the left! The reason is simple: the driver's seat is on the left, making it easiest to see through the left side mirror. Last time I helped a friend deal with an accident, it was because he overtook on the right and caused a rear-end collision, making him fully liable and having to pay compensation. Especially in rainy or foggy weather, overtaking on the right is even more dangerous, as the side mirrors are covered in water vapor and visibility is poor. In some special circumstances like construction zones requiring lane changes, temporary right-side passing is allowed, but you must slow down and confirm it's safe before proceeding. Nowadays, with so many shared bikes in cities, overtaking on the right is most likely to result in collisions with suddenly turning e-bikes. Paying compensation is a small matter, but hurting someone would leave a lifetime of guilt.
