Drivers should pass a cyclist only when it’s safe to do so. Cycling advocacy groups suggest providing at least one metre of clearance. This may require drivers to change lanes in order to pass safely. Extra caution must be exercised and additional space may be required when passing cyclists in highway travel situations.

There are some situations where it’s not safe to pass a cyclist including:

• in construction zones where traffic is reduced to one narrow lane
• in lanes with narrow widths that don’t permit passing at a safe distance
• in a yield lane

Caution and additional space may be required when passing cyclists at high rates of speed.

The Highway Traffic Act does not specify how close cyclists should ride near the right edge of the roadway or the clearance drivers must give a cyclist when travelling alongside or passing them. By using common sense and following the rules of the road, cyclists and drivers can make streets safer for everyone.