Catch the Spin

We have all been caught behind a slow moving car at one time or another. We know this can be a very frustrating experience, and hope to help you next time you are stuck behind a slow moving vehicle.

Steps for Safely Overtaking a Slower Moving Vehicle

1. Approach slow moving vehicle swiftly and get your front bumper within 4 feet (48 inches) from the rear bumper of your opponent. Previously the acceptable distance was 3 feet (36 inches), but since most newer cars are equipped with HID headlights that has proven to be too close. Four feet leaves enough room for the opponent to see the flashing sequence (detailed below).
2. Flash your headlights in a rhythmic sequence that contains 15 flashes. It has been proven that the most effective flashing sequence is 3-2-3-2-5. This sequence should be flashed in steady rhythm with one-second pauses between flashes. Please note: if the opponent moves over during the 15 flash sequence you should immediately stop the sequence regardless of where you are in the sequence.
3. While rhythmically distributing the light flashing sequence you should move your vehicle from side to side gently (staying in your lane). It has been determined that the gentle rocking from side to side while administering the flash sequence is more effective that the flash sequence alone.
4. After 5 complete flash sequences: (1) 3-2-3-2-5, (2) 3-2-3-2-5, (3) 3-2-3-2-5, (4) 3-2-3-2-5, (5) 3-2-3-2-5, you should deliver 5 additional fast flashes 11111 (flash as fast as you can). Total flashes delivered would be 80 if you get all 5 fast flashes in. Most opponents will surrender their position before the full 80 flashes are administered.
5. If your opponent still maintains lane position after the flash sequence you should honk your horn 3 times (no flashes) and safely accelerate into the shoulder or median beside your opponent.
6. When you are directly beside your opponent you should look at the driver and lower your brow (as in disgust) then give one sharp head nod. Once the stare and head nod have been performed it is ok to safely accelerate to get in front of your opponent.
7. Once you are exactly 3 feet (36 inches) in front of your opponent pull your vehicle sharply in front of the vehicle you passed. This step takes some quick calculations and a lot of practice. You will need to know exactly how long your vehicle is and a good estimate of how long your opponent’s is. In addition, you will need to include the speed that you and your opponent are traveling to safely leave the acceptable 3 foot clearance (measured from your back bumper and your opponents front bumper).
8. Accelerate up to your next opponent and repeat the above steps as many times as necessary until you safely reach your destination.