Even when you are following the speed limits and driving responsibility, there will still be occasions where you need to overtake. Overtaking in itself is not dangerous or reckless, as long as it is done safely.
The consequences of an overtaking accident can be devastating, so it is worth taking some time to consider improving safety in this area. Outlined below are some safety tips about overtaking that could protect you as a road user in Tennessee.
Knowing when to overtake
Before carrying out an overtaking maneuver, it is pivotal that your visibility is not impaired. If conditions are foggy or it is nighttime, that could be the reason why the driver in front of you has slowed down. You need to make sure that your vision is clear and that you can see the road ahead.
Knowing when not to overtake
As well as decreased visibility, there are a number of other reasons for holding off before trying to overtake. It will benefit you to gain as accurate a measure as possible of your speed and the time it will take to complete the maneuver. If there is traffic ahead and you are cutting it short for time, it’s simply not worth the risk. Also, you need to think carefully about how much room you have at your disposal. If you’re being slowed down by a larger truck or commercial vehicle, make sure that there is definitely enough space to get past.
Safe overtaking practices can ensure that you get from A to B in an efficient manner, but most importantly, that you arrive safely. If you have been caught up in a road traffic accident, be sure to take note of your legal rights in Tennessee.