What must a driver ensure before overtaking another vehicle?

Before overtaking another vehicle, it is essential for a driver to ensure that the road ahead is clear and there is a suitable gap. This is crucial for the safety of both the driver and others on the road. A clear road indicates that there is enough space to maneuver and complete the overtaking maneuver without the risk of encountering oncoming traffic or obstacles. Ensuring there is a suitable gap also allows the driver to return to their lane safely after overtaking.

The other options, while they may seem relevant, do not address the fundamental safety requirement for overtaking. For instance, while it is important to consider whether the vehicle being overtaken is moving slower, this alone does not guarantee that overtaking can be done safely without a clear view of the road ahead. Similarly, the absence of vehicles in the opposite lane can be a factor in certain situations, but it is not a requirement on its own, as there may still be other hazards to consider. Lastly, the notion that only experienced drivers should attempt to overtake does not take into account the necessary conditions that must be met for safe overtaking, which are crucial for all drivers regardless of experience.