When Passing Another Vehicle: Rules & Safety Guide (Video)

Steps for Safe and Legal Passing

1. Analyze the Situation

   Make sure passing is legal (check signs and road markings!) and necessary. Decide whether conditions appear safe for passing.

2. Check Your Mirrors

   Look in your rear-view and side mirrors to see approaching vehicles.

3. Check Your Blind Spot

   Turn your head briefly to ensure no one is already in the left lane.

4. Signal Left

   Turn on your left turn signal to communicate your intention early.

5. Move Into the Passing Lane Smoothly

   Shift into the left lane only when it is completely safe and clear.

6. Pass the Vehicle Safely

   Accelerate to overtake without exceeding safe or legal speed limits.

7. Signal Right to Return

   When you can fully see the passed vehicle’s headlights in your rear-view mirror, it’s safe to move back.

8. Check Mirrors Again

   Confirm there is enough space before returning to your lane.

9. Move Back Into Your Lane

   Do so smoothly and without cutting in too close.

Illegal Passing — Never Do This

• Never cross a solid yellow line

  A solid yellow line means passing is prohibited due to oncoming traffic danger.

• Never pass without signaling or checking

  This can lead to sideswipes and rear-end collisions.