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How close do you drive to cyclists when overtaking?

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We have all been there, traffic is building up behind you, there is not a gap in the opposite flow. Then, the chance appears and you just manage to manoeuvre around the cyclist who has delayed your journey by 10 seconds.

Did you know that if you drive too close to cyclists when overtaking them on the road this could result in three penalty points on your driving license?

A nationwide road safety campaign currently running is raising awareness around drivers passing cyclists on the road.

Results of a YouGov survey commissioned by Cycling Scotland suggests that the majority of drivers are probably not aware that driving too close to a cyclist can result in three penalty points.

“Regular cyclists out on the roads are very likely to have experienced close pass incidents which can be really frightening. With light nights and nicer weather more people are out on their bikes, we are all entitled to use the road and have to respect each other,” said a Solicitor a Persons.

Serious injuries with potentially life changing injuries usually happen from a collision between a cyclist and a motor vehicle.

It’s timely, as these various nationwide campaigns are being run, that drivers are reminded to leave the correct minimum passing distance which is usually 1.5metres.

If you are victim to a cycling accident and need legal advice please contact our Personal Injury team on 0161 785 3500

Please note that the information and opinions contained in this article are not intended to be comprehensive, nor to provide legal advice. No responsibility for its accuracy or correctness is assumed by Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd or any of its members or employees. Professional legal advice should be obtained before taking, or refraining from taking, any action as a result of this article.

This blog was posted some time ago and its contents may now be out of date. For the latest legal position relating to these issues, get in touch with the author - or make an enquiry now.

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