Before overtaking a truck, ask yourself, How long is the truck? How long will it take to overtake? Is there oncoming traffic? Is there a bend or dip ahead? How far away is the next overtaking lane?
- If travelling on the motorway/highway, try to use overtaking lanes whenever possible.
- Only overtake when the road ahead is clear.
- Be aware of strong wind conditions as you pass a heavy vehicle.
- When it is safe to overtake, indicate, accelerate and overtake quickly, without exceeding the speed limit.
- After overtaking, maintain your speed so the heavy vehicle does not need to brake.
- Never attempt to overtake a heavy vehicle or other long heavy vehicle on a curve or hill as your visibility is reduced.
When towing a trailer or caravan and a heavy vehicle approaches to overtake your vehicle:
- always maintain your speed and position until the truck starts to overtake
- if required, gently ease off your accelerator until the truck has passed and then return to your safe travelling speed.
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Patience is critical when overtaking a truck.
It can be frustrating to be ‘stuck’ behind a truck, but be patient if you’re going to overtake.
Wait for a dedicated overtaking lane or long stretch of road where you have a clear view ahead, then indicate and overtake quickly to reduce the time you’re in a truck’s blind spot.
Only pull back in when you can see a truck’s headlights in your rear-view mirror.