City passes cyclist safety ordinance

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - The Mobile City Council passed a new ordinance Tuesday that affects all drivers. Drivers are now required to give cyclists three feet of clearance when they pass a rider on the road.

"It's an ordinance that makes the responsibility be placed on the motorists as well as the cyclists," said city councilman William Carroll. "That's why they kind of have to work in unison, so that they can observe and use the road together. It's a protective measure for both parties."

The League of American Bicyclists states that in 2007 there were 698 fatalities and 43,000 injuries involving motorists and cyclists.

Cyclist Andrew Chapman said he has been hit before and thinks this new ordinance will bring about awareness.

"There's a lot of motorists that don't seem to have any regard for cyclists at all so it's definitely a good thing," said Chapman.

"The cyclists that are out there have to ensure they are driving their bicycle as a motorized vehicle and making smart decisions," said Jesscia Melton.

Most cyclists ride along the white line, but some drift further from the side of the road. The three foot rule is about an arms length, and a motor vehicle can still stay in the lane and give this much space.

However, many are asking how the new three foot rule will be enforced.

"Times when an officer sees you, and at his discretion... thinks you're doing something that's completely in harm's way, he would take action on that as he would if you run a stop sign or a red light. It's putting people in harm's way," said Carroll.

Recreational cyclists aren't the only ones benefiting from the new law.

"We're also here for pedestrians. That means kids trying to get to school walking or biking in the morning. This isn't just a recreational sport. This covers our commuters, the people that want to get out there and exercise ... This covers so many different aspects," said Melton.

Mobile is the second city in Alabama to pass the three foot rule. Auburn was the first.

For tips on cycling better from the League of American Bicyclists, click here .

For Alabama's rules of the road, click here .