Overtaking on the right – is this really illegal?

Driving in the Philippines would probably be a lot easier if we all had the ability to read other’s minds, since it would take away the guesswork.

As it is, we don’t exactly take the wheel at the same mental frequency, which adds to the daily frustration of dealing with daily traffic conditions.

Don't feel bad (or threatened) when someone overtakes you

For instance, not everyone has the same sense of urgency in reaching their destinations; some prefer to get there right away, while others like to take their own sweet time. And when one encounters the other on the road, the inevitable happens: overtaking.

Now, overtaking is an accepted traffic maneuver, which is why there are international regulations governing it. Still, judging by the way some motorists react to it, they either find it threatening or consider it a personal affront, like they were being judged for driving relatively slower than the rest of the pack.

>>> Related: Overtaking rules in the Philippines every driver must know

The law tells us to overtake on the slower vehicle's left side

Overtaking requires the vehicle performing the maneuver to be seen from the driver’s position, which is why it happens at the right side in right-hand-drive countries, and the left side in left-hand-drive territories like the Philippines.

Chapter IV, Article II, Section 39 of RA 4136 (The Land Transportation And Traffic Code) in particular instructs that when two vehicles are going in the same direction, the faster vehicle shall pass the slower one on the latter’s left side.

Keep in mind that this isn’t a hard and fast rule however, as it presents exceptions in certain cases. 

>>> Related: Overtaking: Do you understand the dangers?

Overtaking on the right is allowed if a slower vehicle is hogging the lelft lane

For instance, multiple-lane roads such as highways typically reserve the leftmost side for overtaking, in accordance with the law.

There are times when drivers would actually hog the left lane, thinking that reaching the speed limit allows them to do so. If you’re in a faster vehicle and you need to overtake, the law actually allows you to use the right side to pass.

Stalled or left-turning vehicles on the leftmost lane are also valid reasons to overtake on the right

>>> Related: Complete list of LTO fines and penalties in the Philippines

It’s the same thing on business or residential roads with two or more lanes, when you’re traveling on the leftmost lane and the car in front of you is either stopped or is about to make a left turn.

It wouldn’t be considered illegal if you use the right side to overtake, as long as you promptly return to your lane once you’ve safely cleared the vehicle you’re overtaking.

Regardless of which circumstances allow you to pass on either the left or the right, always remember to exercise caution and due courtesy, such as signaling your intention to pass and acknowledging the other driver for letting you do so. 

For more driving tips, visit Philkotse.com.