I absolutely agree that such a law is necessary and, especially if enforced, would make the roads safer for cyclists, runners etc. I am an avid cyclist and I often represent injured cyclists. Its clear to me that cars and trucks that routinely "buzz" cyclists are taking risks with the lifes and wellbeing of cyclists which should not be tolerated. I hope the law passes and I hope that it is enforced.

I absolutely agree that such a law is necessary and, especially if enforced, would make the roads safer for cyclists, runners etc. I am an avid cyclist and I often represent injured cyclists. Its clear to me that cars and trucks that routinely "buzz" cyclists are taking risks with the lifes and wellbeing of cyclists which should not be tolerated. I hope the law passes and I hope that it is enforced.

I absolutely agree that such a law is necessary and, especially if enforced, would make the roads safer for cyclists, runners etc. I am an avid cyclist and I often represent injured cyclists. Its clear to me that cars and trucks that routinely "buzz" cyclists are taking risks with the lifes and wellbeing of cyclists which should not be tolerated. I hope the law passes and I hope that it is enforced.

More laws like this should be passed. I've been on the roads running and biking for about 32 years and have had many close calls. Some of my friends have been hit, and a couple have been killed. As people begin to understand the physical and emotional benefits of exercise, more will share the road. Hopefully the general driving public will become more aware and accepting of the need to share the road. Thanks for the post. Keep us up to date as this bill progresses.

Chipseal - I agree with the point of your blog - responsible behavior by drivers and law enforcement really is the best solution. And I am not familiar with the provisions of the specific laws you cite regarding "hitting" a cyclist, but as a general proposition, hitting a cyclist can result in a motorist being held responsible in a civil setting. As I understand the proposed law, it also holds the motorist criminally responsible making a violator guilty of a misdemenor. More importantly, perhaps, is that these type of "anti-buzzing" laws bring attention to the fact that not giving cyclists adequate room is dangerous. Although this should be self-evident, it may not always be so and a law criminilizing the behavior may help motorists realize the potential consequences of their actions. Although, as you correctly point out, enforcement of these laws really is important and, generally speaking, even if passed, I always am skeptical that enforcement will be carried out like it should be.