1996 Oldsmobile Achieva Owner's Manual - Page 160

0 The driver of a vehicle about to pass another a on two-lane highway waitsfor just right moment, the 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 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 surrenderto frustration or anger can suddenly put the passing driver to face with the face worst of all traffic accidents -- the head-on collision. So here are some tips for passing: 0 Do not get too close to the vehicle you wantto pass while you're awaitingan opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you're following a larger vehicle. Also, you won't have adequate spaceif the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to acceleratebut stay in the right lane and don't get too close. Time your move you will be so increasing speed as the time comes to move into the other lane. If the way isclear to pass, you will have a "running start" that more than makes up for the distance you wouldlose 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. 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. broken A center line usually indicates it's right to pass all (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid line on your side the lane or a double solid line, of even if the road seems empty of approaching traftic. 0 -2