New cycle law
Sunday, October 1, 2006
FORT LAUDERDALE (AP) - A new law meant to keep motorists a safe distance away from people riding bicycles goes in effect Monday.

The state mandated during last spring's legislative session that motor vehicles must leave a three-foot gap when overtaking bicyclists. The previous law only used the words pass safely, but state transportation officials said the change now gives officers a defined distance.

Bicycling advocacy groups and the state are trying to inform drivers of the new law, which is classified as a moving violation and carries driver's license points. Fines vary in each county.

At least five other states have a three-foot clearance law.



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