Changing positions
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Changing Lanes
Changing lanes means moving from one lane to another, usually to overtake slower traffic, avoid obstacles, or maneuver around parked vehicles.
Always signal and check your mirrors before changing lanes; never move without confirming the lane is clear.
Check your blind spot by looking over your shoulder (especially important for spotting bicycles or small vehicles).
Maintain your speed or gently increase it as you change lanes; do not slow down unless necessary.
Avoid sudden lane changes; other drivers expect you to stay in your lane and may not react in time.
Passing (General Guidelines)
Passing refers to moving around a slower vehicle by temporarily entering another lane or traffic area.
Ensure there is enough space and clear distance ahead to pass safely; do not force a risky maneuver.
When initiating a pass, use your left-turn signal to indicate your intention and check mirrors and blind spots.
After passing, signal and move back into your original lane only when you can see the entire front of the vehicle you passed in your inside mirror.
If the vehicle you are passing speeds up, do not race; either resume your lane or let the other vehicle go ahead.
Never pass moving snow plows under any conditions—maintain a safe following distance instead.
Passing on the Shoulder
You may drive on the right shoulder only to pass a vehicle turning left, and only if that shoulder is paved.
Passing on the left shoulder is never permitted, whether paved or unpaved.
Passing on the Right
Most passing is done on the left, but you may pass on the right on multi-lane or one-way roads, or when overtaking a streetcar or a left-turning vehicle.
Passing on the right can be more dangerous; ensure the vehicle ahead is not about to change lanes to the right.
If you are behind a slower vehicle in the left lane, wait for it to move right rather than suddenly swerving around it on the right.
Passing Streetcars
You must pass streetcars on the right unless you are on a one-way road.
If a streetcar is stopped with no safety zone for passengers, you must stop at least two metres behind the rear doors where passengers are boarding or exiting.
In areas with designated stops or safety zones for passengers, pass with caution at a reasonable speed.
Passing at Night
Use low beams when approaching a vehicle from behind to avoid blinding the driver.
Once you are alongside the vehicle you are passing, you can switch to high beams to see further ahead.
Signal and ensure you can see the entire front of the passed vehicle in your rear view mirror before returning to the right lane.
Passing and Climbing Lanes
Some roads have special lanes for slower vehicles to move right, allowing faster vehicles to pass safely on the left.
Advance signs indicate when a passing or climbing lane starts and when it ends, so all drivers can prepare to merge accordingly.
Other Passing Considerations
Never pass when approaching a hill crest, on a curve, or near a bridge, viaduct, or tunnel if your view is obstructed.
Give extra space when passing parked vehicles to avoid opening doors.
Motorcycles, bicycles, mopeds, and limited-speed motorcycles may move laterally within their lane to avoid hazards—treat them as full vehicles and change lanes to pass safely.
When faster traffic is behind you, move to the right to let it pass. On an undivided road, be prepared to slow down and create space if the passing driver needs to pull back in front of you.
Summary
Always plan ahead before changing lanes or passing; safety and clear visibility are top priorities.
Signal, check mirrors, and check blind spots as part of a consistent habit whenever changing lanes or overtaking.
Adjust your speed and position proactively—avoid sudden or aggressive maneuvers that can surprise other road users.