Overtaking, lane use and turning
Overtaking is the highest-risk manoeuvre on a two-lane island road, and the exam tests whether you can say no to it.
Before you overtake
Overtake on the right in left-hand traffic. Check that markings allow it (broken line, not solid or double), that the view ahead is clear, that there is no junction, bend, crest or pedestrian crossing, no oncoming vehicle, and enough clear road to return. Signal, check mirrors and blind spot, move out smoothly, and return only when you can see the overtaken vehicle in your mirror.
Where never to overtake
On narrow causeways with no shoulder, on bridges, at junctions, approaching a school or village, in flood or spray, or when the vehicle ahead is slowing for a hazard you cannot see.
Lane position and turning
Keep left except when overtaking, passing parked vehicles or stationary hazards, or positioning for a right turn. Mirror, signal, manoeuvre: signal early, position correctly, slow before the turn, and check your right mirror and blind spot for motorcycles before turning right. Do not cut the corner on a left turn.
Worked example
A truck ahead slows to 20 km/h on a straight stretch. The solid line has just become broken and a motorcycle is approaching from the opposite direction. Reasoning: the broken line permits but does not require overtaking, and the oncoming motorcycle removes the gap. Action: hold back, stay two seconds behind, let the motorcycle pass, then reassess.
Traps
Overtaking where a solid line ends exactly at a junction; speeding up while being overtaken; assuming an indicator gives you space; swinging wide into the oncoming lane before checking the mirror.