Drivers must give bicyclists 4-feet of space, but there’s more to Pennsylvania’s “Safe Passing Law”

PedalPGH is this Sunday and our city will see approximately 3,000 thousand bike riders on its roads: having outrageous fun, seeing spectacular views, and negotiating its lovely terrain. If you will be driving this weekend, take a second to review Pennsylvania’s Safe Passing Law which outlines how it is that we can pass bicyclists safely and legally.

Pennsylvania’s Safe Passing Law (HB 170) provides the following protections:

• Every driver that passes a bike must give a minimum of 4-feet of clearance at a “prudent reduced speed.”
• It is legal to cross the center double yellow line if necessary to provide the required four feet when passing a bicycle, if you judge that it is safe to do so.
• No turn by a motorist may interfere with a bicycle proceeding straight (the classic right hook).
• Bicycles may be operated at a safe and reasonable speed appropriate for bicycles.
• Unless making a left turn, bicycles must be operated in the right hand lane, or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of roadway.
  • This does not apply to a bicycle using any portion of the road due to unsafe surface conditions.

For the text of the “Safe Passing Law”, view the PA Vehicle Code, Title 75.

Now if you’re riding this weekend, prep by tuning up your bike with an ABC Quick Check and review the laws and considerations of safe biking.

Aero Tech Designs is a local cycling apparel manufacturer with 30 years of industry experience. Keeping true to their roots, Aero Tech Designs has produced cyclewear in the USA since the early 1980’s. They specialize in comfortable road, MTB, commuter, and touring clothing, and are located in Coraopolis, PA. They are also available for any custom apparel needs you may have. www.aerotechdesigns.com