How Can You Ensure Safe Overtaking Every Time?

If you travel on single-lane roads, you’ll eventually need to pass a slower vehicle, whether a tractor, a lorry, or a leisurely Sunday driver.

For newly qualified drivers—and even some experienced ones—overtaking on single-lane roads can be daunting. However, it’s a crucial skill to learn safely and confidently.

What is overtaking?

Overtaking refers to passing a slower-moving road user travelling in the same direction as you. This typically involves another vehicle but includes cyclists, horses, or other road users.

Is overtaking prohibited on a single-lane road?

Overtaking is illegal if there are clear signs or road markings indicating that it is forbidden or executed in a dangerous, reckless, or uncontrolled manner.

Examples of such situations include when you lack a clear view of the road ahead—possibly due to adverse weather conditions like rain or fog—or if you must exceed the speed limit to complete the overtaking manoeuvre. If you’re preparing to book theory test, it’s essential to understand these rules to ensure safe driving practices.

Can you speed to overtake?

According to guideline 125 of the Highway Code, the speed limit is the absolute maximum on any road, which also applies to overtaking. Exceeding the speed limit is dangerous and illegal, potentially resulting in penalty points, hefty fines, or even a driving ban.

While overtaking is legal, strict rules govern when and how to do it safely, with the key principle being that you should only overtake when it is safe and legal.

Easy Steps for Safe Overtaking

When you want to overtake a vehicle on a single-lane road, follow these simple steps:

1. Think About It: Before deciding to overtake, ask yourself if it’s necessary. If you’re just stuck behind a slow driver but will be turning off the road soon, it might not be worth the risk.
2. Check for Signs: Look for any “no overtaking” signs. Make sure there are no dangers ahead, like pedestrian crossings or turns. You might not see what’s coming if the road bends or dips.
3. Ensure You Can See Clearly: Make sure you see both lanes ahead clearly. You should have enough space (about 100 meters) in front of the car to safely pass and return to your lane without making the other driver slow down.
4. Consider Your Car’s Load: Think about how many passengers or how much luggage you have. It might be harder to overtake if you carry extra weight or drive uphill.
5. Don’t Follow Closely: Just because another car is overtaking doesn’t mean you should do the same. They might have enough space, but you might not be able to see clearly if you’re too close behind them.
6. Check Your Mirrors: Look in your mirrors to ensure the road is clear, not just in front of you but also behind and in your blind spots. Another vehicle might be trying to overtake you without you noticing.
7. Signal Your Intentions: Slow down and signal to let the car in front and those behind you know you want to overtake. This gives you space to speed up.
8. Stay Alert: Look at the road and your mirrors for unexpected obstacles. Be ready to drop back if something comes up.

Drive with Confidence at LIDT!

Feeling rushed? Stay calm! Enroll in our 7-Day Intensive Driving Course to build your skills and confidence. Our expert instructors will prepare you for your theory test and ensure you’re ready for the road.

Safe overtaking relies on understanding your surroundings’ rules, timing, and awareness. With LIDT, you can master these skills and make every manoeuvre safe.