OvertakingIndia
Traffic rules
India
1. Overtaking
Overtaking is the act of passing another road user travelling in the same direction. It normally involves moving to another position or lane, passing the slower road user and returning to the appropriate position when it is safe.
Before overtaking, a driver should make sure there is sufficient visibility and space, check mirrors and blind spots, signal when required and ensure that no other road user is already overtaking. The manoeuvre must be completed without exceeding the speed limit or endangering other road users.
On which side do drivers normally overtake in India?
As traffic normally keeps left, drivers ordinarily overtake on the right. This is the general rule, not permission to pass wherever a lane is available; exceptions and restrictions depend on the local law.
🔗 morth.gov.in • India — Regulation 14
🔗 morth.gov.in • MoRTH — GSR 38(E), 15 January 2024, clause 12: indirect-vision devices
🔗 pib.gov.in • PIB/MoRTH — official confirmation of the 2020 driving-regulation amendment
When should you avoid overtaking in India?
Do not begin if approaching traffic, restricted visibility, road markings, an intersection, a crossing or another road user makes the manoeuvre unsafe or unlawful. Check behind and ahead, allow enough space and never exceed the speed limit to complete the pass.
🔗 morth.gov.in • India — Regulation 14
🔗 morth.gov.in • MoRTH — GSR 38(E), 15 January 2024, clause 12: indirect-vision devices
🔗 pib.gov.in • PIB/MoRTH — official confirmation of the 2020 driving-regulation amendment
What extra care is needed when overtaking slower road users in India?
Regulation 14 permits overtaking only when safe and requires sufficient attention to opposing traffic, visibility and the applicable restrictions. Regulation 5 requires particular care for vulnerable users, including pedestrians and cyclists. Leave safe lateral space for their possible movement; wait if you cannot pass safely rather than squeezing through or exceeding the speed limit.
🔗 morth.gov.in • India — Regulation 14
🔗 morth.gov.in • MoRTH — GSR 38(E), 15 January 2024, clause 12: indirect-vision devices
🔗 pib.gov.in • PIB/MoRTH — official confirmation of the 2020 driving-regulation amendment
