What is the first step when preparing to pass another vehicle?

The first step when preparing to pass another vehicle is to check for oncoming traffic. This is crucial for ensuring your safety and that of other road users. By checking for oncoming vehicles, you can determine whether it is safe to execute the pass without risking a collision. This assessment helps identify if there are any vehicles approaching from the opposite direction, which could create a hazardous situation if you begin to pass.

While signaling your intentions is also important, it should occur after you have confirmed that it is safe to proceed with the maneuver. Accelerating quickly might be necessary during the actual passing process, but it should not be the initial step. Moving to the left lane is part of the passing action itself, which can only be done once the road is clear and it is safe to do so. Therefore, ensuring that you have a clear path by checking oncoming traffic is the most crucial first step in safely passing another vehicle.