Teorio
Overtaking
Overtaking is about passing a slower vehicle in front of you. It is one of the most hazardous maneuvers in traffic, so there are strict rules about when and how you may overtake to reduce the risk of accidents and conflicts.
Rules & Regulations
- Overtaking may only be done if it can be carried out without danger or unnecessary obstruction to other road users — check speed, distance, visibility and the movement of any oncoming vehicles.
- You must not cross a solid road marking to overtake; road markings and traffic signs that prohibit overtaking must be obeyed.
- Overtaking is prohibited at and in connection with pedestrian crossings: you must not overtake a vehicle that has stopped at a crossing to allow pedestrians to pass.
- Obey the 'No overtaking' sign (overtaking prohibition sign); the sign forbids overtaking until a cancellation or end sign is visible.
- At a bus stop you must not overtake if the bus has stopped and passengers are boarding or alighting or if pedestrians are in the roadway — show particular caution and be prepared to stop.
- You must not overtake in intersections, on pedestrian and cycle crossings, at level crossings, or in curves/crests where visibility is insufficient or where the overtaking would force oncoming vehicles to take evasive action.
- The 'No overtaking' sign does not apply to two-wheeled mopeds or two-wheeled motorcycles without a sidecar — they may be overtaken even when the prohibition applies to other vehicles.
- The main rule is that overtaking should be done on the left. Overtaking on the right is permitted in certain situations, for example where signs indicate different directions in separate lanes, in lanes with a speed limit of 70 km/h or lower with lane markings, in bus lanes, and during heavy queues in multiple lanes in the same direction where speed is dictated by the vehicle ahead.
Tips for Drivers
- Mirror and blind spot check: look in all mirrors and turn your head to check the blind spot before beginning the overtaking maneuver.
- Signal well in advance with indicators before changing lanes to overtake, and do not return to the right lane until there is a safe distance between your vehicle and the overtaken vehicle.
- Be extra cautious when overtaking public transport or vehicles near stops — reduce speed and be prepared for pedestrians to appear between vehicles.
- If visibility or space is uncertain: wait for a better place to overtake. Patience reduces the risk of accidents.
Common Mistakes
- Believing that overtaking on the right is always allowed — in many situations it is forbidden or dangerous, and overtaking is normally done on the left.
- Thinking that the no-overtaking sign only applies to cars — it generally applies to overtaking of vehicles in general (exceptions may exist for certain vehicle types depending on signage).
- Attempting to overtake a vehicle that has just stopped at a pedestrian crossing assuming no pedestrians remain — stop and wait until you can be sure it is clear.
Exam Tip
In theory exam questions you will often be given scenarios with a vehicle stopped at a pedestrian crossing or a bus at a stop — always state that you must not overtake if there is a risk to pedestrians or if the vehicle has stopped to let passengers on or off.
Did You Know?
The no-overtaking sign exists to reduce risk on stretches with poor visibility or a high accident rate — the sign prohibits overtaking until an end sign cancels the prohibition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I overtake on the right?
In Sweden the main rule is that overtaking is done on the left. Overtaking on the right is only allowed in specific situations where it is safe and not prohibited, for example during congestion in multiple lanes, but it requires extra caution.
What does the no-overtaking sign mean exactly?
The sign prohibiting overtaking indicates that vehicles may not pass other motor vehicles on the stretch until the prohibition ends. An end sign indicates that the overtaking prohibition has ended.
Can I overtake a bus that has stopped at a bus stop?
You should be very cautious and must not overtake if the bus has stopped for boarding or alighting where pedestrians may be in the carriageway. If you do overtake, you must ensure it is completely clear and that no pedestrian is put at risk.
May I cross a solid line to overtake if it is safe?
No. A solid marking must not be crossed to overtake. It indicates that overtaking is prohibited regardless of your assessment of safety.
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