When is it safe to return to your driving lane after passing another car?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of visibility when returning to your driving lane after passing another vehicle. When you can see the headlights of the car behind you in your rearview mirror, it indicates that you have created enough space between your vehicle and the one you’ve passed. This visibility ensures that the other driver has sufficient distance and time to react, thus enhancing safety for both you and that driver.

Additionally, simply seeing the rearview mirror of the car (the first option) might not provide a complete assurance that the other vehicle is at a safe distance, as it may still be relatively close. Relying on a specific distance, like three car lengths (the third option), can be misleading since the length of a car can vary, and the actual safe distance depends on speed and road conditions. The final choice about other drivers signaling is not a reliable indicator of their awareness or readiness; waiting for a signal may delay your return to your lane unnecessarily. Therefore, focusing on visibility of the headlights serves as a practical and effective method for ensuring a safe lane change.