When passing another vehicle, when is it safe to return to the right lane?

The correct answer is the moment you can see the vehicle you passed in your rearview mirror, as this indicates that you have safely cleared the other vehicle and can return to your right lane without risk of collision. This action ensures that there is enough space between your vehicle and the one you just passed, minimizing the chance of cutting off the other driver and allowing for safe merging back into the lane.

Safety while changing lanes is paramount, and relying on your rearview mirror is a critical practice in ensuring that you have enough distance from the vehicle you have overtaken. This perspective also enables you to confirm that there are no other vehicles in your blind spot before making the lane change.

The other options do not provide a reliable basis for safely returning to the right lane. For instance, returning to the right lane as soon as you begin to pass could lead to an unsafe situation where you might not have completed your maneuver or provided adequate space. Seeing the vehicle in your side mirror might suggest proximity but does not guarantee sufficient clearance. Additionally, waiting for a horn from the other vehicle is not a valid safety measure, as it could indicate various situations and does not ensure safety during the lane change. Therefore, the best practice is to wait until you can see the