1997 Chevrolet Tahoe Owner's Manual - Page 191

Passing The driverof a vehicle about to pass another a on two-lane highwaywaits for just the right moment, accelerates, moves around vehicle ahead,then goes the back into the right lane again. simple maneuver? A Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle ontwo-lane a 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, ora brief surrender to frustration or anger can suddenly put the passing driver face face with the to -worst of all traffic accidents the head-on collision. So here are some tips for passing: 0 Do not get too close to vehicle you want to pass the while you're awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following tooclosely reduces your area of vision, especially if you're followinga larger vehicle. Also. you won't have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenlyslows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate stay in the right lane and don't but get too close. Time your move so you will be increasing speedas 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. And if something happensto cause you to cancel your pass, you need only slow down and drop back again and wait for anotheropportunity. "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, waitfor 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. broken A center line usually indicates it's all right to pass (providing the road ahead clear). Never crossa solid is line on your side of the lane ora double solidline, even if the road seems empty of approaching tr&k. If other cars arelined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your turn. But take carethat someone isn't trying to pass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle. Remember toglance over your shoulder and check the blind spot. 4-12