1996 Chevrolet Tahoe Owner's Manual - Page 170

Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waitsfor justthe right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver? Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway is apotentially dangerous move, since the passing vehicle occupies the same lane asoncoming traffic for several seconds. A miscalculation, an error in judgment, or a briefsurrender to frustration or anger can suddenly put the passing driver face to face with the worst of all trafficaccidents -- the head-on collision. Do not get too close to the vehicle want to you pass while you're awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you're followinga larger vehicle. Also, you won't have adequate spaceif the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks likea chance to pass is comingup, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane anddon't get too close. Time your move so you will be increasing speed as the time comes to move into the other lane. If the way is clear to pass,you will have a "running start" that more than makes up for the distance you would lose by dropping back. Andif something happens to cause you to cancel your pass, you need only slow down and drop back again and wait for anotheropportunity. If other cars arelined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your turn. But take care that someone isn't trying to pass you as you pull out topass the slow vehicle. Remember toglance over your shoulder and check the blind spot. So here are some tips for passing: 0 "Drive ahead." Look down the road, to the sides and to crossroads for situations that might affect your passing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever about making a successful pass, wait for a better time. Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings and lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken center line usually indicates it's all rightto pass (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or a double solid line, even if the road seems empty of approaching traffic. 0 4-11