When Overtaking Is Forbidden
You must not overtake:
- When there is a solid white centre line on your side
- At or just before a pedestrian crossing
- At level crossings and their approaches
- At junctions (unless you are on a clearly marked priority road)
- At the top of a hill or on a bend where visibility is limited
- If the vehicle ahead has signalled to turn right and is slowing
- If a “No Overtaking” sign is in force
When Overtaking Is Permitted
Overtaking is allowed when there is a dashed centre line, sufficient visibility ahead, and no prohibition sign. Overtake on the left unless the vehicle ahead is turning left, or you are in a one-way street.
The Safe Overtaking Sequence
- Check mirrors — is it safe behind?
- Signal left, check blind spot
- Move out and assess the gap ahead
- Accelerate past — maintain a safe lateral gap
- Signal right, check mirrors and blind spot
- Move back in — do not cut in sharply
- Cancel signal
Lane Discipline on Multi-Lane Roads
- On a two-lane road: keep to the right; use the left lane only to overtake
- On a motorway: keep right where practical; the leftmost lane is for overtaking only
- Do not weave between lanes — it is both dangerous and illegal
Road Markings
- Dashed white line — lane boundary; you may cross to overtake
- Solid white line — do not cross; stay in your lane
- Double solid lines — absolute prohibition; never cross
Key Takeaways
- Solid line on your side = no overtaking, ever
- Always overtake on the left in Sweden
- Check mirrors and blind spot before and after
- If in doubt, do not overtake — patience saves lives