To overtake safely and legally, it is **mandatory to look ahead** to verify that there is no **no overtaking sign**. This is crucial because there are specific situations and places where overtaking is prohibited, such as on curves with limited visibility, hill crests, and in adverse weather conditions like fog or heavy rain.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the lane you intend to overtake in is not occupied by another vehicle that also wants to overtake. Looking ahead allows you to identify these signs and conditions, ensuring that the maneuver is carried out safely and in accordance with traffic regulations.