Bicycle Ordinance Takes Effect

Autin, TX - A new law designed to protect vulnerable road users, including bicyclists, takes effect Monday in Austin.  The new ordinance requires drivers to have at least three feet between their car and cyclists before they can pass.

For commercial trucks the distance increases to six feet.

"I hope the practical impact is that cars passing bikes will allow safe passing distance. And bikes will understand their proper place on the road," said the author of the ordinance, Council Member Chris Riley.
 

The Austin City Council passed the ordinance last month as part of a ban on texting while driving.  That ban won't take effect until January 2, 2009.