What is the first step to take when preparing to overtake another vehicle?

The first step to take when preparing to overtake another vehicle is to check the center mirror. This action is crucial because it helps the driver assess their current surroundings and understand the position of vehicles behind them. By using the center mirror, drivers can identify whether there is a safe opportunity to overtake without the risk of colliding with another vehicle in their blind spot or being caught off-guard by a vehicle approaching from the rear.

It is essential to have a complete awareness of the driving environment before making any maneuvers. Simply accelerating quickly or changing lanes immediately without first checking mirrors could lead to dangerous situations, as it may not allow sufficient time to gather all necessary information about other vehicles' speeds and distances. Moreover, the rearview mirror also provides important information about the traffic behind; however, the center mirror gives a broader view that is vital before commencing any overtaking action.