How much clearance must you give a bicyclist when passing?

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Multiple Choice

How much clearance must you give a bicyclist when passing?

Leave at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist. This buffer gives the rider room to steer away from obstacles, recover balance if they wobble, and stay safe from doors opening in parked areas or debris kicked up from the road. The three‑foot space also accounts for wind and the rider’s unpredictable movements as you pass. If you can’t pass with that much room due to traffic or road width, slow down and wait until you can pass safely with the required clearance. The goal is to maintain a safe buffer that protects the cyclist, which is why this distance is the standard.

Leave at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist. This buffer gives the rider room to steer away from obstacles, recover balance if they wobble, and stay safe from doors opening in parked areas or debris kicked up from the road. The three‑foot space also accounts for wind and the rider’s unpredictable movements as you pass. If you can’t pass with that much room due to traffic or road width, slow down and wait until you can pass safely with the required clearance. The goal is to maintain a safe buffer that protects the cyclist, which is why this distance is the standard.

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