Final answer:
It is permissible to overtake on the left when vehicles in front are turning right, when directed by law enforcement, on one-way streets, and on multi-lane roads during heavy traffic. However, emergency situations with a pregnant woman in labor might justify overtaking left or breaking other traffic rules if no other safe options are available.
Step-by-step explanation:
While the general rule of the road is to overtake on the left only when the cars in front are moving in a queue and the lane to the left of you is moving faster than the lane you are in, there are specific occasions when it is permissible to overtake on the left:
- If the vehicle in front is signaling to turn right or is positioned on the road to turn right.
- When directed by a law enforcement officer or via traffic signs to do so, regardless of the side.
- In a one-way street where the road layout or lane discipline allows it safely.
- On a multi-lane road where the left-hand lane is moving more swiftly than lanes to the right during congestion or heavy traffic periods.
In a situation such as having a pregnant woman in the car who is in urgent need to reach the hospital, it may seem rational to overtake on the left if it is the clearest path, but it is crucial to ensure it is done safely and within legal limits. An emergency such as this might also allow for violating a traffic rule like stopping at a red light, if doing so safely creates more utility and has strong moral justification under a rule utilitarianism perspective, like in the specified situation of it being 4 AM, no other cars around, and the urgency to get to a hospital with a pregnant woman in labor.