A 4-minute lesson from the Connecticut course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
On the road a bicycle is a vehicle, with the same rights and duties as you. Cyclists are hard to see and easily hurt, so Connecticut requires 3 feet when you pass, doubles fines for failing to yield to them, and protects them as 'vulnerable users'.
Vulnerable users
Pedestrians, bicyclists, wheelchair users, people riding or driving an animal, highway workers, garbage trucks, tank vehicles, US mail vehicles and express delivery carriers.
The Vulnerable User's Law sets higher penalties for drivers who fail to use reasonable care and cause serious injury or death of a vulnerable user. Drivers must allow three feet of distance when passing.
A cyclist going straight may ride in the left-hand edge of a right-turn lane. In a lane too narrow to share, the cyclist may 'take the travel lane' (ride in or near its center), and may use the full lane when the shoulder or bike lane is unsafe.
Do not stop, park or drive in a bicycle lane unless entering or leaving an alley or driveway, performing official duties, directed by police, or in an emergency. You may turn across a bike lane but may not drive in it when approaching a turn.
Cyclists may be unable to signal when they need both hands on the handlebars; watch for head turns and looks over the shoulder. Take extra care when roads are wet or covered with sand or gravel, and check for cyclists before opening doors or backing.
You're about to turn right just past a cyclist riding along the curb. Don't pass and cut in front. Slow down, let the cyclist clear the intersection, then make your turn.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
How much distance must a driver allow when passing a bicyclist?
At least 1 foot
At least 10 feet
At least 3 feet
At least 6 feet
Answer: At least 3 feet
Drivers must allow at least three feet of space between their vehicle and a bicycle when passing.
