Before overtaking, it is essential to ensure that **your vehicle has sufficient speed** to complete the maneuver safely. This is crucial because:

- **Adequate speed**: You need to have the ability to accelerate enough to overtake the vehicle in front of you without endangering other drivers. This means your vehicle must be able to reach a speed higher than that of the vehicle you are going to overtake.

- **Safety when returning to the lane**: You must be able to return to your original lane without causing danger to other vehicles. This is only possible if you have the necessary speed to complete the overtaking quickly and safely.

- **Avoid dangerous situations**: If you do not have enough speed, you could remain in the opposite lane longer than necessary, increasing the risk of collisions with oncoming vehicles.

Therefore, verifying that your vehicle can reach the adequate speed is an essential part of preparing for a safe overtaking.