Dealing with overtaking errors
The information below relates to basic errors and their correction and assume that the errors are caused directly by the actions of the learner. However, you must always be certain that you are not contributing to the error by late or unclear instruction or direction or by not offering sufficient information or feedback.
Our suggested issues do not form an exhaustive list, however, if you can spot and sort out these problems you should be well on your way to delivering an effective overtaking lesson. Remember that ideally the only thing you are watching for is a perfect drive... Anything else is a problem!
Following too close
Many drivers follow too close and then 'swoop out' when a chance to overtake arises. This is dangerous because it makes the car unstable and limits forward vision.
If you are working with a learner this should not arise, however, if you take a full licence holder as your learner for the Part-Three exam it is a possibility. If this happens pull up to discuss safe overtaking and then look for another opportunity as the lesson continues.
Cutting in
It is important that the driver must be able to see the overtaken vehicle in his centre mirror to be 100% certain that it is safe to move back in to the left.
No routine
Make sure that the learner fully understands the reason for following a routine when overtaking and then guide him/her through an overtake with whatever help is necessary.
Note: Because this is an exercise that will only be done with test standard learners or full licence holders it is likely that following a good explanation, and/or demonstration, they will be able to complete the first overtake unaided. If this is the case, instructing, prompting or questioning could be a distraction.
Generally driving too fast
Anticipation is essential for safe overtaking - ensure that your pupil understands the concept of 'reading the road' and spotting hazards that will preclude overtaking.
Starting the manoeuvre too late on a clear road
Some drivers are hesitant or fail to plan their overtake. The tend to be 'opportunists' who only overtake as an afterthought.
Typically the need for higher speed overtaking will only arise on open, out-of-town roads - for maximum safety the decision to overtake needs to be made early in order to take the first safe opportunity - this opportunity will often be at the start of a straight section of road.
Opportunist, hesitant overtakers, or those who do not plan well will often not start to overtake until half way along a straight - where there is more potential to meet oncoming traffic arriving from around a bend at the end of the straight.
Next: Step 2 - Checklist...