Bill > A01831

This bill amends the vehicle and traffic law to establish more specific guidelines for drivers overtaking bicycles and pedestrians outside of New York City, creating detailed requirements for safe passing. For cities with populations under one million and towns and villages, the bill mandates that when passing a bicycle, drivers must: (1) move to another lane when possible, (2) if lane changing is not feasible, pass the bicycle leaving at least three feet of distance, and (3) if neither of those options are safe, only pass when it is reasonable and prudent considering existing hazards. The bill applies similar multi-step passing requirements for pedestrians, emphasizing the driver's responsibility to carefully assess the situation and prioritize safety. For larger cities not covered by these specific provisions, the existing standard of passing "at a safe distance" remains in effect. The legislation aims to provide clearer, more comprehensive guidance to drivers about safely sharing the road with vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians, with the goal of reducing potential accidents and improving overall road safety. The bill will take effect 180 days after becoming law, giving time for drivers and law enforcement to become familiar with the new regulations.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1831