Double Overtaking: Rules, Penalties, and Real-World Scenarios
Many drivers mix up the idea of double overtaking—believing it means zipping past several cars in a single lane in rapid succession. In reality, this maneuver is not automatically prohibited by the current Rules. The legality hinges on meeting all the stipulations of section 11 in the governing document. When a driver attempts a double overtake, it is still an overtaking maneuver, but it involves the lead vehicle also initiating a similar action, creating a complex sequence on the road that requires careful judgment and timing. Kirill Mileshkin, a driving expert, explains that a double overtake can place both drivers in a precarious position as they contend with oncoming traffic and the reactions of following vehicles. He recalls experiences where such turns into the oncoming lane tested a driver’s nerve and underscored the importance of understanding the surrounding traffic dynamics.
As a consequence, a double overtake attracts penalties. Under Code of Administrative Offenses article 12.15.4, the offender may face a fine of five thousand rubles or a suspension of driving rights for four to six months. A repeat offense escalates sharply, potentially leading to disqualification from holding a driver’s license for twelve months. The penalties reflect the potential hazard of overtaking when the road or weather conditions are unsafe, or when visibility is compromised by the actions of other drivers ahead or behind.
In practice, overtaking situations often play out in unexpected ways. A driver may move to overtake, only to see the vehicle ahead begin a similar maneuver. When this happens, the driver who started the overtaking attempt later is held responsible for the infraction, and the punishment remains aligned with the same regulatory framework. This scenario demonstrates why it is crucial to assess the entire traffic environment before initiating any pass, including the speed and behavior of nearby cars, the presence of oncoming traffic, and the available space to complete the maneuver safely.
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