A motorist is driving behind a bicyclist on a narrow two-lane roadway. The driver wishes to overtake the bicyclist, but oncoming traffic is approaching in the opposing lane and a solid yellow centerline marks the roadway. Which of the following actions must the driver legally take?
- Slow down, maintain a safe following distance behind the bicyclist, and wait to pass until oncoming traffic clears and sufficient lateral space is available.Answer
- BSound the horn continuously to instruct the bicyclist to leave the roadway and ride on the sidewalk, then proceed without slowing down.
- CSqueeze past the bicyclist within the same lane with a one-foot side buffer while maintaining the posted speed limit.
- DImmediately cross into the opposing lane to overtake the bicyclist despite oncoming traffic, as motorized vehicles have automatic right-of-way over bicycles.
Answer
The driver must slow down, maintain a safe distance behind the bicyclist, and wait until oncoming traffic clears before passing with safe lateral clearance.
The correct action is to slow down, stay behind the cyclist, and wait until the opposing lane is clear to execute a safe passing maneuver with proper lateral spacing. Bicyclists are legitimate road users, and drivers must yield or wait when safe passing is impossible.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Bicycle passing distance and safe overtaking procedures