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Passing is something all drivers have to do on occasion. When we are driving on a four-lane road, it can be fairly easy and not particularly stressful. But passing on a two-lane road can be fraught with danger and create a tremendous anxiety in the driver. As the driver trying to pass, you must make several decisions in a dynamic situation. Is there time to get around the car in front of you? Is there oncoming traffic? How fast is the oncoming car approaching? How fast will you have to drive to get around the car in front of you? All of these calculations have to be made simultaneously and quickly.



  1. 1
    Check to make sure it is LEGAL to pass first. If there is a double yellow line between lanes, it is forbidden. Also, watch for signs that say, “do not pass”.
  2. 2
    Make sure the passing lane is clear. You should be able to see clearly. Do not attempt to pass on a hill or curve.
  3. 3
    Do not try to pass if another car is trying to pass you. Wait till that car is done.
  4. 4
    Do not try to pass if there is an oncoming car which may get too near you as you pass. A good rule of thumb is that if you can see the car getting closer to you, it's too close to pass safely.
  5. 5
    Use your turn signal. Let everyone around you know your intention to pass. You can also flash your headlights at the car you are going to pass to alert them of your move.
  6. 6
    Increase your speed to pass the other car. Wait till you are about a car length away from the car you are passing and then speed up to 10–15 mph (16–24 km/h) faster than the car you are passing.
  7. 7
    After you have passed the other car, check your rear view mirror to make sure that you have enough clear space to safely re-enter your lane.



  • Avoid passing at intersections: this includes intersecting roads, railroad crossings, and entrances to shopping centers.
  • There are other times that it is not safe to pass. If your view is blocked by either a hill or curve, don’t pass. Assume that there is an oncoming car just out of sight.
  • When in doubt, DON'T PASS!
  • If you are on a two lane road pass only in the left. It is dangerous and usually illegal to pass on the right. The exception is when the car ahead of you signals to make a left turn. If the car ahead of you is stopped to make a left hand turn, never pass to his left. Instead, you may pass to the right on the shoulder.
  • Do not go over the posted speed limit.

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Categories: Defensive Driving Skills & Safety

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