Motorists could face fines of up to £5,000 for breaking major Highway Code rules aimed at adding more safety measures in place for pedestrians and cyclists.
The Highway Code requires drivers to maintain a certain minimum distance when passing cyclists on UK roads, but many remain unaware of how much space to leave.
It comes after the Highway Code rules were changed in 2022 with new guidance put in place requiring drivers to leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph.
After the changes were introduced, drivers caught breaking the new Highway Code rules could result in significant penalties under the Road Traffic Act 1988.
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Lara O’Donnell, Head of Personal Injury at CEL Solicitors, said: "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."
Under UK law, drivers can be fined up to £5,000 for careless driving or what has now been named "close pass" travelling.
Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 stated that if a person drives a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or other public place "without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road or place, he is guilty of an offence".
Beyond the risk of fines, failing to comply with the overtaking rule can lead to "devastating" accidents and serious legal repercussions, O’Donnell warned. More serious violations could also result in three to nine penalty points being added to the driver's licence.
In extreme cases, where the offence is classified as dangerous driving, motorists could face a complete driving ban.
O’Donnell added that the financial impact "can be huge" for drivers "but it's nothing compared to the physical harm caused to the cyclist".
She explained how cyclists have a legal right to safe road conditions and can pursue compensation if a driver fails to give them the required space.
According to Cycling UK, close passes are "not only really intimidating, but also dangerous". Figures revealed that "passing too close to the cyclist" contributed to 25 per cent of serious collisions between cyclists and large vehicles.
Keir Gallagher, campaigns manager at Cycling UK, said: "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."
But many road users are still unclear about the required overtaking distance, increasing collision risks. O’Donnell said her message to drivers was clear and simple: "A little extra space can prevent serious accidents and unnecessary hardship."
Beyond legal penalties, drivers could also be held financially responsible for compensation claims if they cause an accident. This could include medical expenses, lost wages, and damage to high-end bicycles, which can cost up to £10,000.
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But in response to the changes, drivers have been left furious over the "double standards" being presented to them. One person shared: "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 person shared: "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."
Find Out More...
The Highway Code requires drivers to maintain a certain minimum distance when passing cyclists on UK roads, but many remain unaware of how much space to leave.
It comes after the Highway Code rules were changed in 2022 with new guidance put in place requiring drivers to leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph.
After the changes were introduced, drivers caught breaking the new Highway Code rules could result in significant penalties under the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailing [email protected]
Lara O’Donnell, Head of Personal Injury at CEL Solicitors, said: "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."
Under UK law, drivers can be fined up to £5,000 for careless driving or what has now been named "close pass" travelling.
Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 stated that if a person drives a mechanically propelled vehicle on a road or other public place "without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road or place, he is guilty of an offence".
Beyond the risk of fines, failing to comply with the overtaking rule can lead to "devastating" accidents and serious legal repercussions, O’Donnell warned. More serious violations could also result in three to nine penalty points being added to the driver's licence.
In extreme cases, where the offence is classified as dangerous driving, motorists could face a complete driving ban.
O’Donnell added that the financial impact "can be huge" for drivers "but it's nothing compared to the physical harm caused to the cyclist".
She explained how cyclists have a legal right to safe road conditions and can pursue compensation if a driver fails to give them the required space.
According to Cycling UK, close passes are "not only really intimidating, but also dangerous". Figures revealed that "passing too close to the cyclist" contributed to 25 per cent of serious collisions between cyclists and large vehicles.
Keir Gallagher, campaigns manager at Cycling UK, said: "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."
But many road users are still unclear about the required overtaking distance, increasing collision risks. O’Donnell said her message to drivers was clear and simple: "A little extra space can prevent serious accidents and unnecessary hardship."
Beyond legal penalties, drivers could also be held financially responsible for compensation claims if they cause an accident. This could include medical expenses, lost wages, and damage to high-end bicycles, which can cost up to £10,000.
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But in response to the changes, drivers have been left furious over the "double standards" being presented to them. One person shared: "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 person shared: "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."
Find Out More...