You want to overtake a horse-drawn carriage on a rural road. What is the right course of action?

In the context of overtaking a horse-drawn carriage on a rural road, the correct actions involve being aware of the situation and ensuring safety.

Looking for hand signals from the driver is important because it informs you whether the carriage is planning to turn or maneuver. This helps prevent accidents by ensuring you know the driver's intentions.

Maintaining sufficient distance when pulling in again is crucial for safety. This ensures that you do not cut off the horse-drawn carriage or cause distress to the horses, which could lead to dangerous situations.

The third option, maintaining the smallest possible side clearance, is not appropriate in this context. While one might think that closer is better, it can actually pose risks to both the horse and its driver. The German traffic regulations emphasize the importance of giving enough space to avoid startling the horses and ensuring safe passage.

Understanding these aspects helps ensure the safety of all road users and adheres to the expected conduct outlined in German traffic laws regarding overtaking maneuvers, particularly with animals and slower vehicles.