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An image created by the city of Ann Arbor to promote the city's new safe-passing ordinance.

(City of Ann Arbor)

ANN ARBOR, MI - If you're planning on driving in Ann Arbor this weekend, there's a new law to follow.

The city's recently approved safe-passing ordinance, which requires motorists to maintain a distance of at least five feet when passing a cyclist, pedestrian or wheelchair user on the roadway, goes into effect Saturday, Jan. 7.

"Drivers are reminded bicyclists may legally ride on Michigan roads, except limited access freeways, and should be patient and drive cautiously and wait until enough space is available to pass bicyclists or other users in the roadway," the city stated in a news release announcing the law's implementation.

The city notes the Secretary of State advises drivers to "pass a bicyclist as you would another vehicle, but not so fast or close that your tires throw dirt or stones into the rider's face or that a draft from your vehicle blows the bicycle about."

City officials say the new ordinance approved unanimously by the City Council last month builds on Ann Arbor's continuing Walk.Bike.Drive campaign, which reminds people they have a responsibility to keep each other safe.

Ann Arbor is following the lead of many communities that already have similar laws, including Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and Portage.

Read more about the new ordinance.