Three Feet Rule Motorist should keep a mimimum distance of 3 feet when passing cyclists on our roadways.

Following the rules of the road is a matter of life and death.  In 2009, 8 pedestrians and 2 cyclists where killed on Louisville Streets. Since motor vehicles and bicycles are both considered "vehicles" in the eyes of the law, the rules of the road apply to motorists as well as to bicyclists regarding their behavior on the road.

We can all use the tips and resources below to help improve Louisville's StreetSense...and reduce the number of pedestrian and cyclist injuries and deaths. 

Smart Moves for motorists to improve bicycle safety

	Respect bicyclists as legal road users with the same rights and responsibilities as motorists.
	Obey the posted speed limit, and don't drive too fast for conditions.
	Come to a complete stop at each stop sign and red light.
	Before passing a cyclist:
	Look to see if there is something in the right lane (debris, parked cars, drainage grates, etc.) that might cause the cyclist to divert their course to the left. Pass only when you can allow at least three feet between yourself (as measured from the extent of your rear-view mirrors) and the cyclist. Return to your lane only when completely clear of the cyclist.
	Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the bicycle in front of you.
	Use low-beam headlights when driving in low-visibility conditions.
	Obey "no turn on red" signs.
	If you plan to turn right or pull into a parking space shortly ahead of a bicycle in front of you, do not pass.
	Signal all turns and lane changes 100 feet in advance.
	Watch carefully for cyclists in and around buses and other large vehicles.
	When opening your car door, look for cyclists in your rear-view mirror.

Smart Moves for motorists to improve pedestrian safety

	Yield to pedestrians when crossing a sidewalk or entering an alley or driveway
	Yield to pedestrians who have started crossing at an intersection or crosswalk on a “walk” signal or a green light, if there is no walk signal
	Yield to pedestrians who are crossing the highway within a marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection where there are no traffic lights or control signals
	Not overtake and pass any vehicle that stops at an intersection or crosswalk to permit a pedestrian or bicyclist to cross the roadway safely

* The information in the "Rules for Motorists Concerning Bicycles" section comes from the Kentucky Drivers Manual