14.54. Overtaking in a tunnel is permitted in the case:
UAВиконати обгін в тунелі дозволено у випадку:
This exam question from the Traffic Rules of Ukraine concerns road safety in areas with limited visibility and increased risk, particularly in tunnels. In an enclosed space, it is more difficult for the driver to assess the situation in advance, and any maneuvers involving entering the oncoming lane can lead to critical consequences, which is why the traffic rules impose strict restrictions here.
The question tests the section of the traffic rules regarding overtaking and passing, as well as knowledge of the direct prohibition in clause 14.6 (f): overtaking in tunnels is always prohibited. It is important to distinguish the terms from clause 1.10: overtaking is passing with entry into the oncoming lane, while passing is possible without such entry (on parallel lanes) provided it is safe.
The analysis of answer options in this theoretical exam boils down to the fact that neither “absence of oncoming traffic” nor “the possibility to perform the maneuver safely” cancels the direct prohibition on overtaking in a tunnel. That is why the correct answer is the one indicating that there are no permitted situations: overtaking in a tunnel is not allowed regardless of the width of the carriageway, the number of lanes, or the speed of other vehicles. In practice, a driver should plan passing maneuvers only where they are permitted by the traffic rules and should not confuse them with overtaking.
Clause 14.6 [d]
Overtaking is prohibited: f) in tunnels.
Clause 1.10 (term "Overtaking")
Overtaking — passing one or more vehicles involving entry into the oncoming traffic lane.
Clause 1.10 (term "Passing")
Passing — movement of a vehicle at a speed exceeding that of a vehicle moving in the same direction in the adjacent lane.
Thus, the correct answer is "In none of the cases," given that according to the definition in the Traffic Rules, overtaking in tunnels is directly prohibited by clause 14.6 [d] regardless of conditions, and only passing (without entering the oncoming traffic lane) is allowed if it is safe.
A tunnel is a section of road with an enclosed space and limited visibility. In such conditions, any lane change or entry into the oncoming lane creates an increased risk, as it is more difficult for the driver to assess the traffic situation ahead in advance and to react in time to an obstacle or approaching vehicle.
That is why the Traffic Rules directly establish a prohibition on overtaking in tunnels. According to clause 14.6 (f), overtaking in a tunnel is not allowed regardless of how many lanes there are, the width of the carriageway, or whether the maneuver seems "safe" at a particular moment. That is, there cannot be a situation in a tunnel where overtaking becomes permitted.
It is important not to confuse overtaking with passing. Overtaking involves moving into the oncoming lane. Passing is possible within one's own lane or when moving in parallel lanes without entering the oncoming lane. In a tunnel, a driver may pass another vehicle only if it is safe and there are parallel lanes, but overtaking itself remains prohibited.
The logic of "it is allowed to overtake slow-moving vehicles" also does not apply in a tunnel, for example, those moving very slowly. Even if someone is driving less than 30 km/h and even if the road markings or situation seem "calm," clause 14.6 (f) still prohibits overtaking in a tunnel.
Therefore, the correct answer is "In none of the cases," since the Traffic Rules (clause 14.6 (f)) unequivocally prohibit overtaking in tunnels regardless of traffic conditions.