What minimum safe following distance should you maintain when sharing the road with bicyclists?

• A. 6 feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist.
• B. At least 3 feet (about one meter) of clearance when passing a bicyclist.
• C. No fixed distance; only slow down.
• D. 1 foot of clearance.

Answer: (B)

The main idea tested is keeping a safe space when you pass a bicyclist. Cyclists can wobble, swerve to avoid hazards, or be suddenly affected by wind or debris, so giving them room protects both of you. The minimum safe passing distance is at least 3 feet (about one meter). This clearance helps prevent collisions if the cyclist shifts position or if your vehicle’s door could open into their path. If you can’t pass with that much space, slow down and wait until you can pass with 3 feet of clearance. The other ideas—going wider all the time or using only a tiny distance or no fixed distance—don’t provide enough margin for safety in typical roadway conditions.