The Proper Way of Over-Taking another Car on the Highway

Driving on the highway is extremely tough for most drivers and statistics reveal that most of the accidents in our country commonly occur on the highway and as a result of a passing or over-taking maneuver. If you thought that over-taking and passing another vehicle was a piece of cake, then think again, since if you mess up you can cause a major accident that can prove to be fatal. The reasons for over-taking another car are a dime a dozen, but that does not mean that you don’t follow the proper driving technique of over-taking another vehicle while driving on the highway.

Amidst all this confusion and distress, some people make the mistake of saying the wrong things to an officer, or even making some very wrong moves. As a result, these actions could easily take their ordinary day and turn it into a scene out of a Hollywood movie or a sitcom. So what should one do to ensure they can get out of this situation without any losses whatsoever?

Well, there are few protocols that you can follow in order to prevent getting a ticket but before you can follow them, you need to know your rights and the authority an officer holds over you. So, let’s see some of the things you should and shouldn’t do, when pulled over by cops.

Pull Over

When you see flashing emergency lights accompanied or not, by the police siren, you have two options. Either pull over as soon as it is safe to do so, or keep going. It is in your best interest, if you pull over right away.

Roll Over the Window and Smile

Now that you have stopped you car and it is time to face the cop, it is best to show him some courtesy. Do not make any rapid movements, as this might make the cop suspect you.

Start by switching off the engine, rolling over the window all the way, and placing your hands on the wheel where he can see them. It will help, if you can switch on the internal lights as well.

Move into the Lane Once You Can See Their Headlights

It is safe to move back into your lane after overtaking the car in front of you, once you can safely see their headlights in your rearview mirror. This is a good way to judge the exact distance between you and the car behind you and also lets you know that there is room to maneuver for your car.

Be Wary of Other Cars Trying to Overtake You

If you are attempting to overtake a car, be mindful of the fact that someone else maybe trying to overtake you as well. If you find that there is someone trying to get in front of you, you should give them room to do so to avoid any accident. Don’t try to increase your speed and get ahead of the car in front of you first, since that would result on rash driving on your part and also endanger the lives of other drivers. You should back-off and try to attempt the overtaking once the car behind you has gone ahead.