With UK Bike Week in full swing, drivers are being reminded of the rules for safely passing cyclists, as more people switch from cars to bikes to save on fuel costs. Motoring experts at LeaseLoco.com are urging motorists to familiarise themselves with the latest Highway Code guidance, given that cyclists now represent a growing share of road users across the UK.
Fuel Costs Drive Cycling Uptake
Recent data indicates that higher fuel prices have led 28% of people to start walking or cycling for everyday journeys, with a further 15% considering doing the same. This trend is expected to increase the frequency with which drivers encounter cyclists on the road.
Highway Code Rule 163 Updates
Rule 163 of the Highway Code, updated in 2022, states that drivers should give cyclists as much room as they would when overtaking a car—at least 1.5 metres at speeds up to 30mph. At higher speeds, even more space is required. Drivers should also wait behind cyclists if overtaking is unsafe, rather than squeezing past in narrow spaces or near junctions, traffic islands, or oncoming traffic.
Penalties for Violations
Alice Hempstead from Money Supermarket warned: "Drivers who stop inside a bike box at a red light could face three penalty points and a £100 fine, and many may not even realise they're breaking the rules."
John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco, commented: "Although fuel prices have started to come down recently, overall motoring costs still remain high. Paired with the ongoing cost-of-living challenges, it's no surprise people are looking for more affordable ways to make their everyday journeys. Cycling is always more popular during the summer months, but with higher motoring costs also encouraging people to cycle, we expect drivers to encounter cyclists more frequently in the coming months."
Key Safety Advice
- Leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds up to 30mph.
- Allow even more room at speeds above 30mph to reduce air turbulence.
- Overtake only when there is sufficient space and visibility.
- Avoid passing cyclists near junctions, road narrowing, traffic islands, or other hazards.
- If in doubt, wait behind the cyclist until a safe opportunity arises.
The Highway Code was updated a few years ago to add more guidance on safely passing cyclists, but many motorists may still not be fully familiar with the changes. The rule of thumb is to leave cyclists as much space as you would when passing another car, and if you are unsure whether there is enough room, the safest option is to hang back and wait.
