When passing a bicyclist, how much clearance should you provide?

When passing a bicyclist, how much clearance should you provide?

• A. At least one foot
• B. At least two feet
• C. At least four feet
• D. Provide at least three feet of clearance when passing

Answer: (D)

Three feet of clearance is required when passing a bicyclist. This minimum distance gives the rider room to maneuver, helps prevent striking the cyclist with a mirror or door, and accounts for potential wobble or road hazards. If you can’t pass with three feet safely—due to oncoming traffic, parked cars, or a narrow lane—you should slow down and wait until you can pass with the required space. The other options either understate or exceed the legal minimum, but three feet is the standard the law sets for safe passing.

Three feet of clearance is required when passing a bicyclist. This minimum distance gives the rider room to maneuver, helps prevent striking the cyclist with a mirror or door, and accounts for potential wobble or road hazards. If you can’t pass with three feet safely—due to oncoming traffic, parked cars, or a narrow lane—you should slow down and wait until you can pass with the required space. The other options either understate or exceed the legal minimum, but three feet is the standard the law sets for safe passing.