Study for the Massachusetts Permit Test. Learn with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Prepare to pass your exam!

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What should you use for passing on a multiple-lane roadway?

  1. The right lane only

  2. The middle and left lanes

  3. Any available lane

  4. The left lane only

The correct answer is: The middle and left lanes

On a multiple-lane roadway, it’s important to understand lane usage for safe and effective passing. The left lane is typically the designated lane for passing slower-moving vehicles. This is because the left lane is generally intended for faster traffic, enabling smoother transitions when overtaking. While the answer indicates the middle and left lanes are appropriate for passing, it's critical to prioritize the left lane for passing maneuvers. The middle lane can also be used, but it may not always be optimal due to traffic patterns or the presence of vehicles in the left lane. Using the right lane primarily for passing can be risky and counterintuitive. Drivers expect slower vehicles to be located in the right lane, and passing from there can create unexpected situations. Thus, focusing on the left lane is a better approach in most scenarios on a multi-lane roadway. In summary, the left lane is designed for faster traffic and passing, which makes it the most suitable choice when overtaking slower vehicles, while the middle lane can be secondary, not the primary choice for passing.