Here is a link to my testimony before the Washington Senate Transportation Committee during this legislative session regarding a proposed three foot minimum passing distance for motorists passing bicyclists and pedestrians in SB 5564. Motorists often don’t realize that passing a bicyclist too closely leaves no margin for error, especially at highway speeds. The three foot minimum gives a specific, easily understood minimum distance, not a vague “safe distance.” The 3-foot minimum not only gives drivers a safe distance standard, but raises their awareness to keep an eye out for bicyclists and pedestrians. All too often drivers are not looking for bicyclists and don’t notice them. Once drivers see bicyclists, the drivers can keep that safe 3-foot distance while passing. At least 22 states already have laws with three feet as the minimum safe distance for motorists to pass bicyclists and pedestrians.