In Maryland, the 3-foot passing law confuses everybody

[B' Spokes: I will also note my ongoing efforts to correct the State's summaries of this law, some have been successful and some have not, such as this is still a good link: http://www.marylandroads.com/MHSO/BikeSafety_LawCard.pdf
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To highlight bits of Jim's article for emphases:]


By Jim Titus, Washcycle

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These four exceptions have been widely publicized, though few drivers probably undestand what they mean and no one knows what the final one means.


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Between the ambiguous exceptions, and the exceptions to(the (bike lane and keep right) exceptions, Maryland has a law that is too confusing to explain to student drivers.  Fortunately, the Motor Vehicle Administration appears to be sticking to the simplest approach:  Drivers should pass cyclists with at least three feet.  This was always MVA's recommended best practice, and the fact that a court can not convict a driver for passing with less clearance in some situations does not change the clearance with which a reasonable driver will pass.

(Jim Titus is on the board of directors of WABA from Prince Georges County, The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent the views of WABA.)


http://www.thewashcycle.com/2012/04/in-maryland-3-foot-law-still-requires-cyclists-to-be-vigilant.html

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