A 2-minute lesson from the North Dakota course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Bicyclists usually travel slower than cars and have little protection. Slow down near them, give them at least three feet when passing, and watch hardest at intersections, where most car-bike crashes happen.
3 feet
Minimum passing space you must leave between your vehicle and a bicycle
Pass a bicyclist only when road and traffic conditions make it safe. Check over your shoulder after passing, before moving back to your normal position. Give bicyclists extra room in bad weather.
Children on bicycles are often unpredictable, may not know traffic laws, and are harder to see because they're smaller. Expect the unexpected and slow down.
You're about to turn right and a cyclist is riding in the bike lane beside you. Check your blind spot and let the cyclist pass. Then signal, move into the bike lane, and 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.
What is the minimum passing distance a driver must leave between a vehicle and a bicyclist?
Ten feet
One and a half feet
Five feet
Three feet
Answer: Three feet
The operator of a motor vehicle is required to leave a minimum of three feet of passing space between the vehicle and the bicycle.