When passing a cyclist, what should you do?

When passing a cyclist, what should you do?

• A. Honk and pass close
• B. Slow, leave at least 3 feet of clearance, and pass with enough room
• C. Pass quickly without slowing
• D. Ignore cyclist and continue

Answer: (B)

Passing a cyclist safely means slowing down, leaving at least three feet of clearance, and passing with enough room. This space gives the rider room to maneuver around debris, imperfections, or a sudden wobble, and it protects both of you from doors opening or unexpected movements. It also reduces the risk of clipped mirrors or sideswipes and makes it easier to re-enter your lane after you’ve cleared the cyclist. The other actions—honking and passing too closely, rushing past without slowing, or ignoring the cyclist—create dangerous situations and can lead to a crash.

Passing a cyclist safely means slowing down, leaving at least three feet of clearance, and passing with enough room. This space gives the rider room to maneuver around debris, imperfections, or a sudden wobble, and it protects both of you from doors opening or unexpected movements. It also reduces the risk of clipped mirrors or sideswipes and makes it easier to re-enter your lane after you’ve cleared the cyclist. The other actions—honking and passing too closely, rushing past without slowing, or ignoring the cyclist—create dangerous situations and can lead to a crash.