Possibly the most dangerous of all driving manoeuvres on normal roads!
ASK YOURSELF DO I REALLY NEED TO OVERTAKE?
If done incorrectly, you risk yourself, the vehicle you are overtaking and anyone coming from the opposite direction.
If this needs to be done, be 100% sure it is worth doing, and that at the time of doing so it is legal to perform it, and without a doubt is safe to do it!
In it's most common situation you will possibly overtake cyclists more than you will another vehicle.
So you need to be aware of New laws introduced in 2022 with the New Highway Code.
The Hierarchy of road users Rule H2 of the Highway Code.
State that you should leave a minimum of 1.5mtrs between you and a cyclist when passing them at speeds of up to 30mph.
Above 30mph you should be leaving them at least 2mtrs.
HORSES
For cars overtaking other vehicles there are so many other things to consider.
Before considering an overtake ask yourself these things.
Is it necessary?
What white lines are there in the middle of the road, are there any legal restrictions stopping you from overtaking?
Are there junctions to the left or right up ahead?
Are there driveways that someone could pull out of?
Is there enough space for you to overtake?
Does your vehicle have the power to overtake the vehicle in front in a timely manner?
Is there a bend coming up?
Will you be turning off the road in a short distance?
These questions are not exhaustive but give a guide as to some of the most common considerations to make before carrying out an overtake.
If, after making the above considerations it is safe to do so, then use the following guide to perform it.
Having positioned yourself in the road to be able to see clearly in the distance ahead of you that an overtake is safe.
Consider dropping down a gear to give you the additional power to pass the ahead vehicle in the shortest time possible without exceeding the roads speed limit.
Signal your intention.
Move out into the right-hand lane so that the vehicle in front is aware of your intentions and leave enough space between you and the vehicle you are overtaking, possibly closer than the usual 2 second gap.
Accelerate and keep the power on until you have passed the vehicle and are back on the correct side of the road.
Once there select a higher gear and cancel your signal.
Remember, if it is not necessary don't do it!
