Which of the following describes the proper way to interact with bicyclists when turning or crossing?

• A. Stay at least 3 feet away when passing and yield to bicyclists when turning or crossing.
• B. Yield to bicyclists only if they are in a bike lane.
• C. Pass bicyclists as closely as possible.
• D. Ignore bicyclists and proceed.

Answer: (C)

Sharing the road with bicyclists means always planning for their movements when you’re turning or crossing. The safest approach is to give them space and yield as needed so they can proceed without sudden moves into your path. The proper guideline is to stay at least three feet away when you pass a bicyclist and to yield to them if they’re crossing or signaling a turn. This keeps riders out of your blind spots and reduces the chance of a collision.

Passing as closely as possible isn’t safe because it offers little room for error if a rider wobbles or shifts position. Ignoring bicyclists is dangerous and illegal in many situations, and yielding only when a bike lane is present doesn’t account for cyclists in other parts of the road or approaching turns. Maintaining a safe distance and yielding when required is the right way to share the road.