How can you safely share the road with cyclists?

Giving at least 3 feet of space when passing cyclists is essential for ensuring their safety and your own. This distance provides adequate room to avoid accidental contact, which can lead to serious injury for the cyclist. By allowing this buffer, drivers can accommodate unexpected movements from cyclists, such as swerving to avoid obstacles. Additionally, maintaining this space helps to foster a safer environment for all road users. It aligns with traffic safety laws in many areas, which emphasize the importance of keeping a safe distance from vulnerable road users like cyclists.

Other options may present unsafe practices. For instance, passing quickly without alerting a cyclist can be dangerous, as it increases the risk of an accident. Riding in the same lane alongside a cyclist can also pose risks, as it may not provide enough space for safe maneuvering, particularly if the road is narrow. Only passing when there are no cars might be impractical in many driving situations and doesn't ensure the safety of the cyclist during pass attempts. Thus, the practice of allowing at least 3 feet of space stands out as the most responsible approach to sharing the road with cyclists.