1.5 meters is the distance road uses should keep when overtaking people cycling. The highway code states that overtaking should only be done when it is safe to do so, for example, when there is a solid white line in the middle of the road, and the cyclist is travelling less than 10mph, the driver should not overtake the cyclist until the solid while line passes, and it is safe to pass. There are times during which overtaking should not be performed, this includes; during bends or going up a hill or bridge.
Just like pedestrians, cyclists are vulnerable road users, due to the lack of external protection they have, and when involved in an accident with a motor vehicle are more likely to experience more severe injuries.
Why is the 1.5-metre gap so important?
Leaving an approximate gap of at least 1.5 meters between the driver and cyclist is very important, as coming too close to the cyclist can be extremely dangerous. Cyclists are more prone to be affected by weather conditions and road conditions and are likely to swerve onto the road. Leaving a gap also allows the cyclist a comfortable distance, without causing the cyclist to swerve or crash, especially if the driver is going a lot faster than the cyclist.
Failing to leave a 1.5-meter gap can result in a criminal sanction of £100 and 3 penalty points on your licence, the penalties can be a lot more severe if failing to leave a gap leads to an accident.
If you would like to start a successful claim as a cyclist who was hurt because of negligent driving, contact one of our experienced road traffic accident solicitors now, to get the highest possible compensation for your case.
Common injuries from cycling accidents
As a cyclist there is a range of injuries you may experience from a road traffic accident, you can experience more or less severe injuries, however, you are more likely to experience more severe injuries because you are a vulnerable road user due to the lack of external protection you possess. The most common less severe injuries include cuts or lacerations or bruising. More severe injuries you may experience as a cyclist, after being involved in an overtaking accident include:
- Broken bones
- Amputations
- Spinal injuries
- Brain and head injuries
- Accidents leading to a fatality.
You can read more about serious injuries and how our solicitors can help you here. If you would like to start a successful claim leading to the highest possible compensation, contact one of our experienced solicitors at Solicitors on Your Side Scotland now.
Claim with us with 3 easy steps
The base to a successful claim is a good amount of evidence to support your claim, however, by following these 3 easy steps, you are more likely to get a successful outcome for your injuries.
- After the accident, make sure everyone is safe and call any emergency services if it is necessary.
- Gather as much evidence as possible, including videos, photos, CCTV footage, dashcam footage and witness reports.
- Claim with us, call us to start a successful claim, in the most stress-free and easy way.
Call us now on 0141 648 4428 and start your claim now.
Contact our solicitors now!
We know the process thoroughly and can offer free consultations to see how much compensation you may get for your case.
Contact us now. Solicitors On Your Side Scotland can offer you free advice and consultations. Our solicitors can help you on a no win-no fee basis. That means there will be no hidden fees.
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