Always consider if overtaking is necessary and is it safe? In some circumstances you will need to overtake. However before deciding to overtake, ask your self if the benefit is worth the risk. Is it safe? Is it lawful? Is it necessary? There is no point in overtaking if you will be turning off shortly, if there is a line of traffic ahead and you will have to slow down, or if the vehicle ahead is driving at the correct speed. Consider what the other driver may be doing. Will he pull out to pass a parked car or cyclist , or is he signalling to turn? Last but not least, is it safe behind you? Is someone overtaking you? Situations which you must not overtake Think about the distance you will travel and also about the time you will need to overtake and get back in safely. Consider also the distance that will be covered by any oncoming vehicles. Do not overtake where your view is restricted by bends or hills crests or when you are approaching pedestrian crossings and side roads. Getting into position to see ahead before overtaking. The mirror signal manoeuvre, position speed look routine is slightly changed when overtaking. To get a good view of the road ahead , stay well back and after checking the mirror position so that you can look along the nearside. Check the mirror again and , if safe , move over to look along the offside for a long straight stretch of road that is free of oncoming vehicles , obstructions and side turns. Engage a lower gear, usually 3rd below 50mph , or 2nd below 20mph, and be ready to accelerate quickly. Look in the mirror to check that it is still safe and signal to let others know of your intentions. Drive quickly past and after overtaking pull back on to your side as soon as you can without cutting in.