1997 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Owner's Manual - Page 151

Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waitsfor justthe right moment, accelerates, moves around thevehicle 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 the same lane as oncoming 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. So here are some tips for passing: 0 0 Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you're awaitingan opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially ifyou're following a larger vehicle. Also, you won'thave adequate space ifthe vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate but stayin the right lane and don't get too close. Time your moveso 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 upfor the distance you wouldlose by dropping back. And if something happens to cause you to cancel your pass, you need only slow down and drop back again and 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 out to pass the slow vehicle. Remember to glance over your shoulder and check the blind spot. "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 right to pass (providing the road ahead clear). Never cross a solid is line on your side the lane or a double solid line, of even if the road seems empty of approaching trafic.