If new legislation passes, Texas drivers could be charged with a misdemeanor offense if they don’t give bicyclists at least three feet of passing clearance in most circumstances.

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Texas Drivers May Have to Give More Room to Bicyclists


Posted on May 12, 2009

According to a proposed bill, drivers could be charged with a misdemeanor offense if they don’t give bicyclists at least three feet of passing clearance in most circumstances.  The legislation is aimed to make drivers more responsible for their vehicles.

Robin Stallings, executive director of BikeTexas, said “it’s important for motorists to understand that close counts – just like in horseshoes.  This bill has the potential to educate motorists that getting close is far more dangerous than they expected.”

The legislation is known as the Safe Passing Bill (SB 488), which in addition to giving bicyclists more room, would also prohibit the “right hook,” a dangerous turn made in front of a bicyclist, pedestrian, runner, motorcyclist, construction worker or other vulnerable user of the road.  A driver, who violates the rule, could face a $500 fine.

If a driver causes an accident that results in injury, he or she could be subject to a Class B misdemeanor and could spend up to 180 days in jail and pay a $2,000 fine.

Bicycle accidents are a serious problem in Texas.  Last year alone, there were 50 deaths caused by bicycle accidents and 274 incapacitating injuries, according to a preliminary Texas Department of Transportation report.

Senator Rodney Ellis, D-Houston, authored the Senate version of this bill.  The Senator owns seven bicycles.

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