Passing

Passing is when you go around another vehicle. You can use a paved shoulder to go around someone only if they are stopped or making a left turn.

The lane farthest on the left of a multi-lane road is used for vehicles to go around slower ones.

If you pass someone on the right, they might not be able to see you and this could cause a crash. If someone is trying to pass you, stay in your lane and slow down.

Changing lanes: Before you move to another lane you need to make sure the road is clear. Remember to use your turn signal before changing lanes. Move one lane at a time. Check over the shoulder in the direction you are changing lanes. If moving to the left lane, check over your left shoulder. If moving to the right lane, check over your right shoulder. These two areas that you check over your shoulder are called “blind spots.” You cannot see these areas by only looking in your mirrors.

When to pass: Be safe when passing another vehicle. There might not be enough time to pass several vehicles at once or the one in front of you. Pass only one vehicle at a time on the left side. Do not stay in the passing lane, move safely back to your lane. You cannot go over the speed limit to pass another vehicle on the road. Do not pass a vehicle unless there is enough room in front of the vehicle you want to pass. Other vehicles do not have to move to let you pass. Once you see both headlights of the vehicle you just passed in your rearview mirror it is safe to return to the driving lane.