When drivers overtake cyclists on roads in New York State, they should be required to pass with no less than 3 feet of distance. The lifesaving 3-foot passing standard, which is now the law in 26 other states and in Washington, DC., must be implemented here in New York. To that end, Transportation Alternatives and the New York Bicycling Coalition have launched a campaign to amend the State’s 2010 Safe Passing law, which is vague and impossible to enforce. We are calling on Albany lawmakers to take action this session to approve State Senator Tom O'Mara and Assemblyman Phil Steck’s legislation, A9189/S6649.



Currently, Vehicle & Traffic Law § 1122-a. states: “The operator of a vehicle overtaking, from behind, a bicycle proceeding on the same side of a roadway shall pass to the left of such bicycle at a safe distance until safely clear thereof.” The amendment would change the statute to read: “The operator of a vehicle overtaking, from behind, a bicycle proceeding on the same side of a roadway shall pass to the left of such bicycle at a distance of not less than 3 feet until safely clear thereof. NYBC also recommends the addition of this clause to the existing statute: “The collision of a motor vehicle with a person operating a bicycle is prima facie evidence of a violation of this section.”



A 3-foot passing distance - the width of a handlebar or the length of an extended arm - gives bicyclists, motorists and law enforcement a clear sense of what is safe and what is dangerous. 3 feet - particularly if it is enforced - will prevent needless deaths and serious injuries.



Tell your Albany representative to sign on this simple amendment. Let’s bring New York State law into the 21st century. Let’s save lives and send a message that New York is serious about creating a safe and shared road system throughout our great state!