The Highway Code states that when overtaking a cyclist, drivers should give, ‘as much room as you would give a car’. It doesn’t specify a minimum distance that drivers must leave between the cyclist and their car, which is a source of confusion for many.
How do drivers overtake cyclists?
When an oncoming vehicle is present, drivers change their CZB, driving significantly closer to the cyclist not only when passing her/him but also when approaching and circumventing the cyclist. Driver CZBs are also influenced by visibility, but not by vehicle speed.
What should you do when overtaking a cyclist?
Rule 139 of the Highway Code states “give cyclists at least as much room as you would a car when overtaking”. Rule 188 of the Highway Code states “When passing a cyclist give them plenty of room”. If they look over their shoulder while you are following them it could mean that they may soon attempt to turn right.
Can you speed to overtake a cyclist?
The Highway Code doesn’t mention speed, it would be sensible to pass cyclists slowly, taking care that they may be more unpredictable in their movement than a car.
Do you signal to overtake a cyclist?
Regardless of what type of road you’re travelling on, you should always indicate when overtaking another moving vehicle or changing lanes. … When planning to overtake a cyclist with oncoming traffic, a brief signal is generally beneficial—especially when the road is relatively narrow.
How much clearance should you give a cyclist?
Leave a safe distance of not less than three (3) feet between the vehicle and the bicyclist and maintain such clearance until safely past the bicycle.
Can cyclists overtake cars?
Lane splitting or filtering is when a cyclist undertakes and overtakes cars in order to make faster progress through traffic, and it’s perfectly legal.
How do you overtake safely?
The rules for overtaking safely
- Consider if it’s necessary. …
- Ask if it’s safe to overtake. …
- Check both lanes. …
- Keep in mind your car’s performance. …
- Do not assume you can follow another car that’s overtaking ahead of you. …
- Check your mirrors. …
- Drop back slightly and signal. …
- Keep checking the road and your mirrors.
Can you overtake a cyclist on a bend?
Always avoid overtaking cyclists on bends, especially where you can’t see what’s around the bend. … Never overtake a cyclist if they look like they are going to change direction, especially crossing your path.
How much space do you need to overtaking a cyclist?
Motorists should leave at least 1.5m of space between their vehicle and the cyclist when overtaking at speeds less than 30mph. This should be greater in poor weather or when the car is travelling at speed.
Can I overtake a cyclists on double white lines?
Double white lines where the line nearest to you is broken.
This means you may cross the lines to overtake if it is safe, provided you can complete the manoeuvre before reaching a solid white line on your side.
Where can I not overtake?
Do not overtake if there is any doubt, or where you cannot see far enough ahead to be sure it is safe. For example, when you are approaching: a corner or a bend. a hump bridge.