OvertakingCanada
Traffic rules
Canada
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 Canada?
As traffic normally keeps right, drivers ordinarily overtake on the left. This is the general rule, not permission to pass wherever a lane is available; exceptions and restrictions depend on the local law.
🔗 ontario.ca • Ontario MTO Driver’s Handbook — sharing the road, cyclists, crossings and bike boxes
When should you avoid overtaking in Canada?
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.
🔗 ontario.ca • Ontario MTO Driver’s Handbook — sharing the road, cyclists, crossings and bike boxes
What extra care is needed when overtaking slower road users in Canada?
Canadian passing duties depend on provincial and territorial law. In Ontario, drivers passing a cyclist must leave at least one metre, as nearly as practicable, and maintain the clearance until safely past. This is an Ontario example. Leave sufficient space for pedestrians and other slower users too, and wait if a pass cannot be completed safely and lawfully.
🔗 ontario.ca • Ontario MTO — passing bicycles, at least1m as nearly as practicable
