What should you do when driving around bicycles?

When driving around bicycles, increasing your following distance is crucial for several reasons. Bicycles are more vulnerable than motor vehicles, and their riders may make sudden stops or swerves to avoid obstacles. By increasing the following distance, you give yourself ample time to react to any unexpected maneuvers from the cyclist, such as if they hit a pothole or need to avoid debris. This added space also ensures that if a cyclist were to fall or have an accident, you have enough room to stop safely without causing harm.

Furthermore, a greater following distance can help reduce the likelihood of a collision, especially since bicycles can decelerate much faster than cars. Drivers should always be prepared for the possibility that a bicycle rider may need to slow down or change direction unexpectedly. Therefore, maintaining a safe following distance is not just a matter of caution; it is a fundamental principle of driving safety around vulnerable road users like cyclists.