Idaho Written Driver's License Practice Test

When overtaking and passing vehicles, which side should you normally pass on?

1. The left

2. The right

3. Whichever lane is open

4. Only on one-way streets

The correct answer is: The left

When overtaking and passing other vehicles, the correct action is to pass on the left side. This is because, in most traffic situations in the United States, vehicles are designed to drive on the right side of the road. Therefore, passing on the left provides clear visibility of oncoming traffic and allows for a safer maneuver. This practice is established to maintain consistency and predictability in road behavior, which is crucial for safety. Passing on the left also minimizes the risk of accidents, as most drivers expect vehicles to pass in this manner. Additionally, in many jurisdictions, it is against traffic laws to pass on the right in situations where it could lead to confusion or dangerous interactions with other vehicles. The other potential options describe passing scenarios that do not align with standard driving laws and protocols, making them less safe and often illegal. In most driving scenarios, it is important to follow the conventional left-passing rule to ensure the safety of all road users.