In general, you should pass vehicles that are traveling in the same direction as you:
Answers
On their right.
On their left.
Only if the other driver signals that it is safe.
Whenever you have the opportunity to do so.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: On their left.
Explanation:
In general, when passing other vehicles on the road, you should do so on their left side. This rule is standard in countries where people drive on the right side of the road (such as the United States and most of Europe). The reasoning behind passing on the left is based on both safety and traffic flow regulations.
Why pass on the left?
- Traffic Flow and Safety: In countries where driving is on the right, vehicles generally stay in the rightmost lanes unless passing. The left lanes are typically reserved for overtaking slower vehicles. This creates a predictable pattern, reducing the likelihood of collisions when drivers follow the same rules.
- Legal Requirement: Most traffic laws around the world mandate that vehicles be passed on the left unless otherwise indicated by road signs or specific lane markings. This ensures uniformity on the road, preventing confusion and accidents.
- Visibility: When you pass on the left, you have a clearer line of sight, allowing you to assess whether it is safe to overtake. Your vehicle’s left-side mirrors and windows give you a better view of the situation on the road, including traffic in the opposite lane, pedestrians, and road conditions.
Other considerations:
- Only if the other driver signals that it is safe: While the other driver’s signal (turn signal) is important when merging or changing lanes, it is not required for overtaking in most cases. You should always ensure that it is safe to pass, regardless of whether the other driver signals.
- Passing on the right: In some situations, such as on highways with multiple lanes in the same direction, it may be legal to pass on the right if the vehicle you are overtaking is turning left or if traffic is moving slowly. However, this is an exception, not the rule.
Therefore, when overtaking another vehicle, always pass on the left unless the situation specifically dictates otherwise.