Jamaica Gleaner
Published: Sunday | May 31, 2009
Home : Auto
Right way to overtake
"Overtaking is among the leading causes of road fatalities on our roads," says Kanute Hare, director of the Road Safety Unit in the Ministry of Transport.

Lurkent Hanson, a senior instructor at Advanced Driver Training Centre, explains the proper way of executing this manoeuvre.

"In a passing manoeuvre, the driver makes a lane change, moves pass the vehicle ahead, and returns to the original lane," said Hanson.

He, however, warned that when passing, one should not cut back into his or her original lane too soon.

The instructor advised that the driver should not overtake at intersections.

Before overtaking, Hare advises that drivers to ask themselves these questions:

1. Is the pass necessary?

2. Is it safe?

3. Is it legal?

4. Do I really need to get ahead?

Motorists are advised that if they have to pass another vehicle, it would be wise to follow these steps:

A. Ensure that it is legal. Passing at intersections, over double yellow centre lines, and on uphill grades is not only unsafe, but also illegal.

B. Begin your pass when you have a safe following distance ahead.

C. Make a quick check of your rear-view mirror and blind spots.

D. Signal for a lane change.

E. Make a last check for traffic as you accelerate to pass the motor vehicle ahead, with a tap of the horn. If there is any shade of doubt in ones mind about making the pass drop back and wait patiently.

F. Signal briefly and return to your lane when the front of the vehicle is visible in your inside mirror.

- Paul Messam

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