Changes to Safe Passing Laws for Edmonton

City Council recently created a bylaw to make it mandatory to pass bikes by either a metre on roads with a speed limit of 60 kph or 1.5 metres on roads over 60 kph. This requirement is effective September 30, 2021. While bicycles are considered slow moving vehicles and legally allowed on Edmonton streets, there is always the potential for a close pass, which can make riding scary. Generally, cyclists should ride a metre away from the curb. If there are cars parked along the curb, then cyclists should ride a metre away from them. This distance puts cyclists approximately in the middle of the lane. Although it might feel more vulnerable to be in traffic, being away from the curb is far safer and now that motorists must wait until it’s safe to pass, then pull into the next lane to do so, it will be even more safe for everyone. This change is a part of the City’s vision zero strategy, and you can find out more about both these initiatives at Edmonton.ca Produced by Karly Coleman.