Overtaking

There will be times when you need to overtake, such as very slow moving vehicles. You may just want to go faster than the vehicle you are currently behind. This is entirely acceptable, but you can make it safer by following some simple rules

Before Overtaking

• Ensure the road (oncoming traffic) is sufficiently clear
• Ensure that the vehicle behind you is not beginning to overtake
• Ensure there is a suitable gap in front of the vehicle you plan to overtake – you should avoid being stuck on the opposite side of the road.

While Overtaking

1. Don’t get too close to the rear of the vehicle you want to overtake
2. Use your mirrors, signal when it is safe to overtake, give a quick sideways glance and start to move out.
3. Move quickly past the vehicle you want to overtake
4. Leave plenty of room – don’t pull back in too near the other vehicle.
5. Always give way to oncoming vehicles.
6. Take extra care at night or when visibility is reduced.
7. You should give motorcyclists, cyclist and horse riders at least as much room as you would give another vehicle
8. You should only overtake on the left if the vehicle is signalling and turning to the right.

Do Not Overtake

• If you would have to cross or straddle any double white lines.
• If you would have to enter an area surrounded by a solid white line.
• If you would have to enter a bus, cycle or tram lane
• After a no overtaking sign
• On the brow of a hill
• Over a hump bridge
• On a corner or a bend
• The vehicle nearest to a pedestrian crossing

If you are Being Overtaken

• Maintain a steady course and speed
• Slow down if necessary
• Never obstruct the path of the overtaking vehicle (speeding up, swerving etc)
• Drop back to maintain the 2 second gap between you and the other vehicle

If you have a large or slow moving vehicle, please do not hold up the traffic
Pull in where it is safe and let other vehicles past