Safety First :

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Highway Code Rule 164

📖 Rule 164 Full Regulations & Explanation

Rule 164 ↗
Large vehicles. Overtaking these is more difficult. You should

drop back. This will increase your ability to see ahead and should allow the driver of the large vehicle to see you in their mirrors. Getting too close to large vehicles, including agricultural vehicles such as a tractor with a trailer or other fixed equipment, will obscure your view of the road ahead and there may be another slow-moving vehicle in front
make sure that you have enough room to complete your overtaking manoeuvre before committing yourself. It takes longer to pass a large vehicle. If in doubt do not overtake
not assume you can follow a vehicle ahead which is overtaking a long vehicle. If a problem develops, they may abort overtaking and pull back in

Text shown in the rule image

Safety First :

Overtaking Large Vehicles ( Rule 164 )

Phase 1 : Preparation & Visibility

Avoid the " Blind Zone "

Getting too close to large vehicles or agricultural equipment like tractors with trailers obscures your view , potentially hiding other slow - moving vehicles further ahead .

Drop Back to See More

Increasing the distance between you and the large vehicle improves your view of the road ahead and ensures the driver can see you in their side mirrors .

Phase 2 : Assessment & Decision

Account for Extra Time

Large vehicles take significantly longer to pass ; ensure you have enough room to complete the entire maneuver before committing .

If in Doubt , Stay Out

If you are unsure if there is enough space or time to pass safely , Rule 164 mandates that you do not attempt to overtake .

Phase 3 : The Overtaking Manoeuvre

Don't Follow the Leader

Never assume you can follow a vehicle ahead that is already overtaking ; they may need to pull back in suddenly if a problem develops .

Watch for Aborted Overtakes

If the car ahead of you encounters an oncoming hazard , they will need the gap you are currently occupying to return to the left lane safely .