Driving 'close pass' rule could see you fined £5,000 when near cyclists | Chronicle Live

Driving 'close pass' rule could see you fined £5,000 when near cyclistsThe Conservative government introduced laws three years ago that penalise drivers up to £5,000 for careless driving or

the newly termed "close pass" travellingCommentsJames Rodger Content Editor and Rom Preston-Ellis Assistant News Editor15:59, 11 Feb 2025Driving 'close pass' rule could see you fined £5,000

when near cyclists(Image: Getty Images) Drivers could be on the hook for staggering fines of up to £5,000 if they don't adhere to Highway Code rules, following legislation brought in by the

Tory government three years ago, that introduced penalties for careless driving or what's now known as "close pass" manoeuvres. Those overtaking cyclists, especially at speeds up to 30mph,

are required to leave a minimum distance of 1.5 metres, or face stiff penalties.

Keir Gallagher, Cycling UK's campaign chief, implored motorists with a plea: "Cycling UK appeals to all drivers to follow the guidance in the Highway Code and give plenty of space when

overtaking cyclists, just as you would if it were your friend or loved one out riding their bike."

‌ "We hope to see as many forces as possible out on the roads today helping to keep cyclists safe."

‌ Meanwhile, personal injury expert Lara O'Donnell from CEL Solicitors pointed out the dangers, stating: "Drivers often underestimate how vulnerable cyclists are. The 1.5-metre rule is

essential to give them space to navigate safely. Ignoring it can lead to devastating accidents and costly legal consequences."

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Article continues below Birmingham Live reports that under Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988, any person who operates a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or public area "without

due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road or place, he is guilty of an offence", reports the Mirror.

Responding to the revised regulations, one person queried: "So if we've got to give the cyclists 1.5 metres of distance when passing, why is it OK for them to undertake in traffic with 15cm

of clearance? Don't quote VULNERABILITY as that's just nuts and double standards."

Another individual expressed their viewpoint, saying: "Millions of pounds have been spent to provide cycle paths , only for the law to blame every motorist for every collision on the road.

As a pedestrian I would walk on the provided pavement, but that's just me."