Because bicyclists receive the same rights as vehicles on the road, drivers must follow the same procedure to pass a bicycle as they would when passing any vehicle. Bicycles must be passed on the right and the driver must maintain at least three feet between the cyclist and the vehicle while passing. Unless passing on the right is allowed, anyone who is on the right and is being passed on the left must not increase his or her speed and must allow the vehicle to go by. Bicycles are not allowed to pass on the left if, in doing so, they pass another vehicle on the right.
Drivers may not drive off of the pavement in order to pass a bicycle or another vehicle and must remain on the main portion of the street. If a driver fails to obey this law and an accident results, the driver will be deemed at fault and liable.
P.A. 95-231, eff. 1-1-08 – From the Chicago Department of Transportation.
If you or a loved on was injured in a bike crash accident when a car passed you on the left, the law affords you legal rights. As Chicago Bike Injury Lawyers, we can work with you to obtain the maximum recovery for your injuries. If we can not recover you, our services are free.
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