What is the recommended practice when following a cyclist?

What is the recommended practice when following a cyclist?

• A. Leave ample space to pass safely and signal early.
• B. Follow closely to discourage the cyclist.
• C. Overtake immediately without signaling.
• D. Slow down and ride beside the cyclist.

Answer: (A)

When you’re behind a cyclist, the safest approach is to give plenty of space and signal your intention well before you move to pass. This communicates what you’re going to do, reduces the chance of surprising the cyclist, and helps protect you both. In practice, aim for at least three feet of clearance when passing and complete the pass in a way that lets the cyclist stay in their lane without being crowded. If there isn’t enough room to pass safely, wait behind until you can pass with a safe margin. Following closely, rushing to pass without signaling, or riding beside the cyclist while you follow increases risk and isn’t appropriate because it doesn’t provide predictable, safe movement for anyone on the road.

When you’re behind a cyclist, the safest approach is to give plenty of space and signal your intention well before you move to pass. This communicates what you’re going to do, reduces the chance of surprising the cyclist, and helps protect you both. In practice, aim for at least three feet of clearance when passing and complete the pass in a way that lets the cyclist stay in their lane without being crowded. If there isn’t enough room to pass safely, wait behind until you can pass with a safe margin. Following closely, rushing to pass without signaling, or riding beside the cyclist while you follow increases risk and isn’t appropriate because it doesn’t provide predictable, safe movement for anyone on the road.