When sharing a lane with a cyclist, what is the minimum distance you should maintain between your vehicle and the cyclist?

When sharing a lane with a cyclist, maintaining a minimum distance of 1 metre is essential for ensuring the safety of both the cyclist and the driver. This distance allows enough space for the cyclist to maneuver without the risk of coming into contact with the vehicle. It also accounts for potential unexpected movements by the cyclist, such as swerving to avoid obstacles or changing lanes.

In addition to promoting safety, this distance aligns with legal requirements in many jurisdictions, which mandate that drivers give cyclists enough room to ride safely. If a vehicle cannot maintain this minimum distance safely due to conditions such as narrow roads, it is advised to wait until it is safe to pass the cyclist. Maintaining this distance not only protects the cyclist but also reduces the likelihood of accidents that could have serious consequences for all road users.