DISTANCE WHEN PASSING A BICYCLIST

House Bill 4265 as introduced

Sponsor:  Rep. Holly Hughes

Committee:  Transportation and Infrastructure

Complete to 10-30-17

SUMMARY:

House Bill 4265 would amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to require the driver of a vehicle overtaking and passing a bicycle going in the same direction to pass at a safe distance of at least five feet to the left of the bicycle.

The bill would also require the driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle and passing it on the right to pass at a safe distance of at least five feet to the right of the bicycle. The conditions under Section 637 that govern passing on the right would also have to be met.

A person who violated the proposed requirements would be responsible for a civil infraction.

MCL 257.636 and 257.637

FISCAL IMPACT:

HB 4265 would have a positive fiscal impact on the state.  Revenue collected from payment of civil infraction penalties is deposited into the state Justice System Fund, which supports various justice-related endeavors in the judicial branch, and the Departments of State Police, Corrections, and Health and Human Services.

                                                                                        Legislative Analyst:   E. Best

                                                                                                Fiscal Analyst:   Robin Risko

                                                                                                                          

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House Fiscal Agency staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.