In which direction should a driver pass when overtaking another vehicle going in the same direction?

When overtaking another vehicle that is traveling in the same direction, the appropriate action is to pass on the left side. This practice is fundamental to maintaining safety on the road and ensures that all drivers are following the same unwritten standard of conduct. Overtaking on the left is designed to minimize the risk of collisions, as vehicles positioned in the left lane typically have a clearer line of sight and can navigate around slower-moving vehicles more safely.

Passing on the left is also consistent with most traffic laws and regulations worldwide, which emphasize the left-side passing rule. It creates a predictable environment for drivers, since they know that vehicles will be maneuvering to the left when overtaking, rather than unpredictably to the right or remaining in their lane.

Choosing to pass on the right, as suggested in another option, can be dangerous and is often illegal in many jurisdictions, as it may involve maneuvering into the lane of another vehicle without enough space or visibility to do so safely. Staying in your lane does not facilitate the act of overtaking since it would not move ahead of the slower vehicle. A U-turn is entirely inappropriate in this context, as it signifies a reversal of direction and does not pertain to the act of overtaking.