Many drivers get far too close to cyclists when they pass them. Under Indiana law, drivers need to give a buffer space of 3 feet. If there’s not sufficient space to pass safely, they need to wait behind the bicycle until there is enough room.
In practicality, though, many drivers will just push their way by with only a foot or two of space. Some cyclists feel that they are just inches away from being hit. Why do people do this?
They don’t understand the law
One problem is that this law was only enacted in 2019. Some cities did have similar ordinances before the statewide law, but it is possible that not all drivers are aware that they need to give 3 feet of space in the first place.
They’re in a hurry
Even when drivers understand their legal obligation, they may just be in a hurry and find themselves frustrated to be stuck behind a bicyclist. Rather than driving slowly for even a few seconds and waiting for oncoming traffic to clear so that they can use the other lane to pass safely, they just pass the cyclist as soon as possible. They’re far more focused on their own personal schedule than the safety of others on the road.
They misjudged the distance
Finally, some drivers may believe they’re giving enough space when they actually are not doing so. This is similar to how you will often see people tailgate by not leaving a three-second gap between vehicles. They may not even be aware that they’re doing it, but they’ve just misjudged the size of the gap.
When drivers are negligent and do not operate their vehicles safely around cyclists, those who have been injured in accidents may need to know how to seek financial compensation for medical bills and more.
