Plan the whole pass
Normally overtake to the right. Before leaving your position, check that passing is permitted, that the road ahead is clear far enough for the whole manoeuvre, and that traffic behind is not already passing you. Allow safe lateral clearance, pass without exceeding the applicable speed limit, and return only when you can do so without cutting in.
The space must cover moving out, travelling beside the other vehicle and moving back. A vehicle travelling only slightly slower than you may take a long distance to pass. Do not begin merely because you can reach its rear corner before an approaching vehicle arrives. If the available view or gap is uncertain, wait.
When passing on the left is permitted
Passing on the left is allowed only in the specified situations and only if it can be done safely. The permission never includes driving on the shoulder or verge to get past.
- The vehicle ahead is turning right or has clearly signalled that intention, and there is safe lawful room on its left.
- In an urban area, a one-way roadway is wide enough for two or more lines of traffic.
- In an urban area, a two-way roadway is wide enough for two or more lines moving in your direction.
- A one-way roadway is divided into marked traffic lanes.
- A traffic officer directs the movement.
Crests, curves and concealed people
Do not pass where a crest, bend or other obstruction prevents a sufficient view of approaching traffic. The manual’s exceptions concern a pass that can be completed without entering the path of opposing traffic, such as on a one-way road or within your own properly available side. They do not remove another prohibition or the duty to avoid danger.
Do not pass a vehicle that has stopped at a pedestrian crossing. People may be hidden in front of it. At a stationary bus, slow down and look for pedestrians who may emerge around either end. A pass that is technically within a lane can still be dangerous.
Passing on a freeway
Keep left and pass right. A driver in a right-hand lane who is being overtaken must move left when it is safe to do so. The manual permits a headlamp flash to indicate an intention to pass, but it grants no right to speed, tailgate or force another driver into danger. As the driver being passed, do not accelerate and frustrate the manoeuvre.
Worked situation
A car ahead signals right at an urban intersection. There is only a narrow shoulder on its left and pedestrians are waiting beside it. The right-turn signal alone does not permit you to use that shoulder. Wait behind until there is a safe, lawful route past or the car completes its turn.
Five checks before passing
Check permission, visibility, space, speed and the safe return path. If any one fails, do not start. When another vehicle passes you, keep a predictable left position and do not increase your speed.