Safe Passing

Keeping everyone safe on our roads.

To keep everyone safe on our roads, there are minimum distances and speeds for overtaking. You can find out how to overtake people on bikes, on foot and horses on this page.

Bikes

At speeds of up to 30mph you should leave at least 1.5 metres (5 feet). When overtaking at higher speeds leave more space.

Safe pass cyclist

Pedestrians

Allow at least 2 metres (6.5 feet) of space and keep to a low speed when passing a pedestrian walking in the road (for example, where there is no pavement).

Safe pass pedestrian

Horses

Pass wide and slow. Leave at least 2 metres (6.5 feet) of space and keep your speed to 10mph or below. Horses are large animals and can be easily spooked so slow down and avoid any loud noises in your car.

Safe pass horse

Top tips for safe passing

  • Be patient, wait until there is enough space and slow down if needed. Do not  squeeze’ past – you could be risking someone’s life.
  • Do not sound your horn, rev your engine, or drive close behind. 
  • Keep a steady pace while overtaking and avoid accelerating until you have fully passed.
  • Do not overtake near junctions, pedestrian crossings, on a roundabout or at pinch points (e.g. keep left bollards, pedestrian refuges or traffic calming features). Never overtake just before a left turn that you plan to make.

Hierarchy of road users

The Highway Code outlines a ‘hierarchy of road users’. It states that people in charge of vehicles that can cause most harm in a collision have the most responsibility to take care and reduce the danger they pose to others. People at most risk in the event of a collision are placed at the top of the hierarchy. The hierarchy does not remove the need for everyone to behave responsibly and with consideration for others.

The Hierarchy is:

  1. Pedestrians
  2. Cyclists
  3. Horse riders
  4. Motorcyclists
  5. Cars/taxis
  6. Vans/minibuses
  7. Large good/passenger vehicles

Hierarchy of road users

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