Under what conditions is it appropriate to pass another vehicle on the left?

• A. Only when it is legal and safe, with a clear view ahead and enough room.
• B. Only when you believe the other vehicle is moving too slowly and you are in a hurry.
• C. Only at intersections where there is clearly a passing lane.
• D. Never pass on the left.

Answer: (A)

Passing on the left is appropriate only when you can do it legally and safely, with a clear view of the road ahead and enough room to complete the maneuver. The key idea is that you must be able to overtake without cutting off the vehicle ahead or forcing oncoming traffic into a hazardous situation. If you can’t be sure there’s a safe buffer—due to poor visibility, curves, hills, intersections, or no-passing zones—wait until conditions improve. When the road allows and you have the space, signaling, checking mirrors and blind spots, and finishing the pass before returning to the right lane keeps the move smooth and predictable for everyone.