When is it permissible to drive on the left side of the road?

Driving on the left side of the road is permissible when trying to avoid an obstruction. This action is often necessary to ensure the safety of both the driver and other road users. If there is an obstacle in your lane, such as debris, a stalled vehicle, or a hazard, moving into the left lane allows you to navigate safely around it while minimizing risk.

Understanding the context of the other scenarios can help clarify this point. While overtaking another vehicle is indeed a common reason to drive on the left side in certain contexts, it must typically be done in accordance with specific traffic laws, such as ensuring it is safe and legal to do so. Emergencies may also justify such maneuvering, but those situations are usually more specific and may not always align with traffic regulations. Lastly, the direction of a police officer can determine when and where a vehicle can be driven on the left side, but this is not a standard rule applicable in all situations.