Indian traffic sense or the lack of it has been the source of many social media memes and funny cartoons. Jokes aside, the sad fact is that India ranks very high in traffic accidents and fatalities resulting from those.
Overtaking on the right: Indian traffic rules require the driver to drive on the left-side of the road. This means that over-taking is permitted only on the right. However, this is not allowed if the driver in front has indicated an intention to turn to the right.
Kerala Private Bus overtaking KSRTC Bus through Left Side – CCTV Visuals
In such an instance, the vehicle at the back, is allowed to over-take from the left, if  there is sufficient space to do so. It is important to indicate turns at all times and equally important to note the indications of the other drivers on the road and take appropriate action. It is not always right to overtake on the right.
Lane Designation and Vehicle Overtaking
On highways the speed of the lanes are designated. The fastest lane is the one closest to the center of the road and the slowest to the edge of the road. Usually the following features are common on highways:
- The lane designated for faster traffic is on the right.
- The lane designated for slower traffic is on the left.
- Most freeway exits are on the left.
- Overtaking is permitted to the right, and sometimes to the left.
Vehicle Overtaking Tips
To overtake other vehicle or rather car overtaking as it is in lane driving, make sure that you are without danger to do so. Follow the undermentioned tips before overtaking:
- Use the right-turn indicator to signal that you want to overtake. Be sure the way ahead and behind is clear before overtaking.
- Check out for scooters or motor cycles that may be hidden from view in front of the vehicle you are about to overtake. Watch for vehicles in front that may be turning right.
- to overtake. Watch for vehicles in front that may be turning right. Immediately after overtaking, give indicator that you want to get back to the same lane. Get back to the previous lane when you can see all the front of the vehicle you are passing in your rear view mirror. Do not cut off a vehicle by suddenly moving in front of it.
- Never race if the vehicle you are passing speeds up. In this situation get back into your original lane.
Note:- Never overtake within 30 metres of a pedestrian crossing.
Changing Lanes
While driving on roads with more than one lane, lane changing may be required to overtake another vehicle, to avoid a parket vehicle or when the vehicle ahead slows to turn at an intersection. Proper signal or indicator is very important while changing lanes to ensure safe move.
Tips for Vehicle Overtaking in India:
- Check out for a space in traffic where you can enter safely.
- Check your blind spot by looking over your shoulder in the direction of the lane change. Give a signal or indicator in the direction you want to move
- Re-check to ensure the way is clear and that no one is coming at a fast speed from behind.
- Turn steadily into the new lane.
Note:- Never change the lane suddenly by cutting in front of another vehicles. Avoid lane change unless required and do not change in or near an intersection.
Vehicle Overtaking at Night
While overtaking at night be very careful. The following guidelines are very important to avoid any mishappen:
- As you approach a vehicle from behind, switch your headlights to low beams.
- To warn the driver ahead for overtaking switch your high beams on and off quickly.
- Check your mirrors and blind spot perfectly, and pull out to overtake. While moving beside the vehicle, switch on your high beams so that you can see more of the road ahead. Watch out for the vehicles that may be turning right in front of you.
- When you are able to see all of the front of the vehicle you are overtaking in your rear view mirror, pull back into the previous lane. Give indicator to ensure other drivers that you are getting back into the lane.
