Practice question

If you are being passed by another vehicle, what should you do?

  1. Speed up to avoid the driver
  2. Slow down and allow safe passage
  3. Change lanes immediately
  4. Maintain your speed

Answer: B — Slow down and allow safe passage

When being passed by another vehicle, the safest and most appropriate action is to slow down and allow the other driver to safely complete their maneuver. This approach helps to create a buffer zone between your vehicle and the passing vehicle, reducing the risk of a collision. Allowing safe passage minimizes the potential for accidents that could occur if the other driver misjudges their space or if there are unexpected conditions on the road. Slowing down can make it easier for the passing vehicle to pull ahead, ensuring that they can return to your lane without having to speed up excessively or become anxious about fitting into the space safely. Maintaining your speed while someone is passing could create a hazardous situation, especially if the passing driver has to merge back into your lane quickly. Additionally, attempting to speed up or change lanes without careful consideration can further complicate matters, potentially leading to danger. Therefore, slowing down appropriately is the best practice in these scenarios.

Practice more: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) Practice Test →