Passing
The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a
two-lane highway waits for just the right moment,
accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes
back into the right lane again.
A
simple maneuver‘?
Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane
highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the
passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming
traffic for several seconds.
A
miscalculation, an error
in
judgment, or
a
brief surrender to frustration or anger can
suddenly put the passing driver face to face
with
the
worst of all traffic accidents
--
the head-on collision.
So
here are some tips for passing:
“Drive ahead.” Look down the road, to the sides, and
to crossroads for situations that might affect your
passing patterns.
If
you have any doubt whatsoever
about making a successful pass, wait for
a
better time.
Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings, and lines.
If
you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a
turn or an intersection, delay your pass.
A
broken
center
line
usually indicates it’s all right to pass
(providing the road ahead
is
clear). Never cross a solid
line on your side of the lane or a double solid line,
even
if
the road seems empty of approaching traffic.
Do
not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass
while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing,
following too closely reduces your area
of
vision,
especially
if
you’re following a larger vehicle. Also,
you won’t have adequate space
if
the vehicle ahead
suddenly slows or stops. Keep back
a
reasonable
distance.
When
it
looks
like a chance to pass is coming up,
start to accelerate
but
stay
in
the right lane and don’t
get too close. Time your move
so
you
will
be
increasing speed
as
the time comes to move into the
other lane.
If
the way is clear to pass, you
will
have a
“running start” that more than makes up for the
distance you would
lose by dropping back. And
if
something happens to cause you to cancel your pass,
you need only slow down and drop back again and
wait
for
another opportunity.
If
other cars are lined
LIP
to pass
a
slow vehicle, wait
your turn.
But
take care that someone isn’t trying to
pass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle.
Remember
to
glance over your shoulder and check
the blind spot.
4-12
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