Penalties
Failing to overtake at a safe distance = 4 demerit points and $400 fine.
Overtaking at a railway/pedestrian/children's crossing = 4 demerit points and $400 fine.
Overtaking on continuous white line = 3 demerit points and $200 fine.
Exceeding speed limit when overtaking = This will vary depending on speed.
Failing to overtake a cyclist allowing a passing distance of 1 metre (up to 60km/h) 1.5 metres (over 60km/h) = 4 demerit points and $400 fine.
Overtaking can be dangerous. When overtaking, make sure you have a clear view of oncoming traffic and use your indicator to signal your intentions to other drivers.
Overtaking on the left
Permitted when:
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driving on a multi-lane road;
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directed by an authorised person (e.g. police officer);
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the vehicle(s) in the right lane is stationary and it is safe to do so;
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a vehicle is indicating that it is turning right or making a U-turn.
Overtaking on the right
This is permitted when you’re both travelling in the same direction and you are not crossing a continuous white line.
Overtaking a vehicle on the right is NOT permitted:
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at a railway, pedestrian or children’s crossing;
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at an intersection;
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where there is a ‘no overtaking’ sign;
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where there are single or double continuous centre lines;
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where you do not have a clear view of approaching traffic.
Motorists should only overtake a cyclist when there is a clear view of the road ahead and if there’s enough space for you to pass. You may legally cross continuous white lines to safely pass a cyclist. Remember to indicate.
Remember:
When travelling on roads with a speed limitup to 60km/h, allow 1 metre between your vehicle and the cyclist to pass safely;
When travelling on roads with a speed limit over 60km/h, allow 1.5 metres to pass a cyclist.