Final answer:
When traveling on a two-lane highway driving on the left side is mainly allowed for overtaking, left turns, or when directed by signs or road markings. Safe passing requires knowledge of your vehicle's size and adherence to speed limits. Emergency situations may warrant exceptions, but must be handled with utmost care.
Step-by-step explanation:
When traveling on a two-lane highway, you are permitted to drive on the left side of the road in a few specific situations. These situations generally include when you are overtaking and passing another vehicle traveling in the same direction under the rules of the road, when you are preparing for a left turn at an intersection, into a private road or driveway, or when appropriate signage or road markings indicate that you may do so.
Special circumstances, such as a divided highway or a multi-lane road, may alter these rules, but it's essential to adhere strictly to road signs and traffic laws for safe driving practices.
It's important to remember that driving on the left is not a typical practice and is generally done only when necessary and safe. For example, when passing, you must ensure that the lane is clear of oncoming traffic, signal your intention to pass, and return to the right-hand side of the road as soon as you can do so safely without impeding the traffic you've just overtaken.
Knowledge of and compliance with speed limits, such as the 60 km/hr limit in towns and cities, and understanding the size of your vehicle are essential for evaluating safe passing and turning maneuvers.
In the case of an emergency, as illustrated by the situation of a pregnant woman requiring urgent transport to a hospital, legal exceptions can be made under the principle of necessity.
This principle allows the driver to prioritize the immediate safety and well-being of the passenger by carefully proceeding through the red light, provided that this action does not endanger others and all reasonable precautions are taken. However, these instances are exceptions to the rule and must be justifiable under the circumstances.