New York DMV Permit Written TestSafe Driving PracticesHard
A driver is traveling on a two-lane road and plans to pass another vehicle. The car ahead is already traveling at the speed limit. There is an oncoming vehicle approaching in the opposite lane. What is the safest and legal action to take?
- AAccelerate quickly to pass the vehicle before the oncoming car arrives.
- BWait for a clear passing zone and sufficient space to pass safely.
- CSignal left and flash headlights to encourage the vehicle ahead to speed up.
- DPass on the right shoulder if there is enough space.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Wait for a clear passing zone and sufficient space to pass safely.
Passing should only be attempted when there is ample space, a clear passing zone (e.g., no solid lines), and no oncoming traffic that would create a hazard. If the vehicle ahead is already at the speed limit, passing offers no benefit and creates unnecessary risk, especially with oncoming traffic.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Illegal and extremely dangerous; passing with oncoming traffic is a head-on collision risk.
- C. Aggressive and ineffective; you should not try to influence the speed of the car ahead, and it does not make the pass safe.
- D. Illegal and dangerous; passing on the shoulder is prohibited and can lead to loss of control or hitting obstacles.
Safe Passing Rules
Only pass when it is legal, safe, and necessary, ensuring ample space and no oncoming traffic.
- Requires clear visibility ahead.
- Must be able to complete the pass safely before oncoming traffic.
- Illegal to pass on solid lines or if vehicle ahead is at speed limit.
Memory trick: Clear view, no speed limit gain, oncoming gone, then pass again!