A 3-minute lesson from the Michigan course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Before turning right at an intersection, into a driveway or off the road, look for bicyclists coming from behind on the shoulder or in a bike lane. Yield and let them pass first.
If 3 feet isn't practical, pass at a safe distance and speed — which may mean using another lane or waiting. You may pass a bicyclist in a no-passing zone when it's safe.
After passing, don't return to your lane until well clear of the bicycle. Large vehicles and those towing oversized loads should allow even more space and time.
Low three-wheeled recumbent bikes and handcycles also use Michigan roads. They usually have mirrors and often tall orange flags, but their low profile makes them hard to see.
On a two-lane road without a bike lane, you come up behind a bicyclist with a car approaching in the other lane. Slow down, wait until no traffic is coming, then pass leaving at least 3 feet.
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.
Where are bicyclists prohibited from legally riding in Michigan?
Rural roads
Residential neighborhoods
Limited access freeways
City streets
Answer: Limited access freeways
Bicyclists may legally ride on Michigan roads except limited access freeways.
You're about to pass a bicyclist on a two-lane road. Michigan law sets a minimum passing distance, though some cities require more. What is the statewide minimum?
6 feet
2 feet
1 foot
3 feet
Answer: 3 feet
Michigan law requires leaving at least 3 feet of space when passing a bicyclist.
