What is the minimum distance you should maintain when passing a person on a bicycle?

Maintaining a safe distance when passing a person on a bicycle is crucial for both the cyclist’s safety and the driver’s legal responsibility. In Virginia, the law specifically requires drivers to provide at least two feet of clearance when passing a bicycle. This minimum distance helps ensure that the cyclist has enough space to navigate without feeling endangered by the passing vehicle. It also reduces the risk of accidents caused by the wind turbulence from the vehicle or any sudden movements from the cyclist. This distance is considered adequate to provide a buffer that promotes safety for all road users.