Identify Passing Situations
Passing increases the element of risk in driving, but this risk can be reduced when you apply some basic tools to identify when it is safe to pass.
Preview Passing maneuver times
You can verify whether you are correctly gauging how long it will take you to complete a passing maneuver. When you spot a vehicle you believe you can pass, immediately start counting one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, up to one-thousand-ten. If that oncoming test vehicle hasn't passed you yet, your estimate was correct. If it passed you before you reached one-thousand-ten, then you didn't allow enough time.
Preview Identify a safe distance ahead
If you can't see at least one-third of a mile ahead, don't attempt to pass.
Preview Identify an end-of-pass gap to pull back into lane
When completing your pass, wait until you can see both headlights of the vehicle (the front of the vehicle) you have just passed in your rear-view mirror before moving back into your lane; that way, you won’t dangerously cut off the other driver.
Preview Establish a safe response to hazards
You may find yourself in the middle of a passing maneuver and suddenly confronted by a hazard, such as a vehicle unexpectedly pulling onto the road in front of you. Brake slowly — you could lose control of your vehicle if you slam on the brakes. Do not panic. Going onto the shoulder or even off the road is always preferable to a head-on collision.
Preview Check for road traction
Before you get into a passing situation, check for road traction. You do not have good traction if the steering wheel feels loose in your hands at low speeds.