Often, cyclists and drivers in California are separated by bike lanes positioned next to the traffic lanes. Some of these bike lanes may be protected, meaning that there is a curb or other device in between the lanes. In other situations, the lanes are simply painted on the side of the street.
But there are also situations in which cyclists and drivers have to share the lane together. Many smaller residential streets do not have bike lanes, for example, so cyclists ride on the right-hand shoulder.
When passing a cyclist, it is mandatory for drivers in California to give them at least 3 feet of space. This buffer helps to keep them safe and avoid accidents. Drivers should not try to force their way by if there is not sufficient space to keep 3 feet of distance from the bike.
Why do drivers violate this rule?
In some cases, drivers will break this rule simply because they do not know how much space they are supposed to leave.
But in many cases, the issue is simply that the driver does not want to wait. If there is oncoming traffic and so they cannot leave enough space to pass, they should slow down and drive at the same speed as the cyclist. But many drivers want to be going much faster. They will force their way through, even if it puts the cyclist in danger and violates the law, because they do not want to slow down.
This is very dangerous driving behavior, and it puts cyclists at significant risk. Those who have suffered injuries in accidents may be able to seek compensation for damages like medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.