1995 Pontiac Grand Prix Owner's Manual - Page 155

Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits just right moment, for the accelerates, moves aroundthe vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again.A simple maneuver? Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the passing vehicle occupies same lane as oncoming the traffic for several seconds. A miscalculation, an error in judgment, or a brief surrender to frustration or anger can suddenly put the passing driver face to face with the worst of all traffic accidents-- the head-on collision. e Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you're awaiting opportunity. For one thing, an following too closely reduces your of vision, area especially if you're following larger vehicle. Also, a you won't haveadequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slowsor stops. Keep back reasonable a distance. e When it lookslike a chance to passis coming up, s o here are some tips for passing: e "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 better time. a e Watch for trafk signs, pavement markings, and lines. start to accelerate but stayin the right lane and don't get too close. Time your move so you will be increasing speed asthe 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 the for distance you would lose by dropping back. And if something happens to cause you to cancel your pass, you need only slow down and back again and drop wait for another opportunity. If other cars are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your turn.But take care that someone isn't trying to pass you as you pull to pass the slow vehicle. out Remember to glance over your shoulder and check the blind spot. If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. broken A center line usually indicates it's l right to pass a l (providing the road ahead clear). Never cross solid is a line on your side of the lane ordouble solid line, a even if the road seems empty of approaching traffk. 4-12