Overtaking and Undertaking Rules for UK Roads Explained

Navigating UK roads safely requires a thorough understanding of overtaking and undertaking rules. Whether you are a new driver or an experienced motorist, knowing when and how to overtake or undertake can help prevent accidents and ensure smoother traffic flow. In this blog, we will break down the rules, safety tips, and common mistakes related to overtaking and undertaking in the UK.

What is Overtaking?

Overtaking refers to the action of passing a slower-moving vehicle in front of you by moving into another lane or side of the road. It is a crucial driving manoeuvre that requires careful judgement and adherence to traffic laws.

When is Overtaking Allowed?

Overtaking is permitted under the following conditions:

The road is clear ahead, and you have a good view of oncoming traffic.
Road markings and signs do not prohibit overtaking.
It is safe to accelerate without exceeding the speed limit.
The vehicle in front is moving significantly slower than the legal speed.

When Should You Avoid Overtaking?

If there are solid white lines on your side of the road, which indicate no overtaking.
When approaching bends, junctions, or pedestrian crossings.
If you cannot complete the manoeuvre safely before encountering oncoming traffic.
In poor visibility conditions such as fog, heavy rain, or night driving without adequate lighting.

Understanding Undertaking

Undertaking is the act of passing a slower-moving vehicle on the left-hand side, rather than the right. In the UK, undertaking is generally discouraged, except in specific circumstances.

When is Undertaking Permitted?

On motorways or dual carriageways where traffic is moving in congested conditions, and vehicles in the right lanes are moving slower than those in the left lanes.
When a vehicle is signalling to turn right, making it safer to pass on the left.
If a lane-specific instruction (e.g., on a smart motorway) allows vehicles to pass on the left.

When is Undertaking Illegal?

When intentionally using the left-hand lane to overtake other vehicles at high speeds.
If weaving in and out of traffic to gain an advantage.
On single carriageways where normal overtaking should be done on the right-hand side.

Safety Tips for Overtaking and Undertaking

Check Mirrors and Blind Spots: Always ensure no vehicles are approaching from behind or beside you before making your move.
Signal Clearly: Indicate well in advance before changing lanes.
Maintain Safe Speed: Avoid excessive speeding while overtaking, and always follow the speed limit.
Be Cautious in Heavy Traffic: Do not force your way into gaps when undertaking.
Consider Road Conditions: Wet or icy roads increase stopping distances, making overtaking and undertaking riskier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overtaking on Solid White Lines: This is illegal and dangerous.
Not Checking Blind Spots: Missing a vehicle in your blind spot can lead to serious accidents.
Misjudging Distances: Failing to judge the space needed to complete an overtaking manoeuvre can be hazardous.
Aggressive Undertaking: Speeding past cars on the left without caution can cause unexpected collisions.

Learn Safe Driving with Pass Swiftly

Understanding and applying safe overtaking and undertaking techniques are essential skills for every driver. At Pass Swiftly, we provide comprehensive driving courses that cover all aspects of road safety, including advanced manoeuvres like overtaking and undertaking.

Our expert instructors will guide you through real-world scenarios, ensuring you develop the confidence and skills needed to handle UK roads responsibly. Book your driving lesson today and gain the knowledge to drive safely and efficiently!

For more information about our courses, visit our driving course page to find the right training for you.

By following these rules and improving your driving skills with professional training, you can ensure a safer and smoother driving experience on UK roads.