Give space. Pass with care.
Everyone deserves to get home safely.
What is a close pass?
A close pass happens when a driver overtakes a cyclist without leaving enough space. It’s one of the most common causes of fear, near misses, and collisions on our roads.
Providing enough space isn’t just considerate - it’s the law. Highway Code Rule 163 (GOV.UK), introduced in 2022, advises drivers to allow at least 1.5 metres when overtaking a cyclist at speeds up to 30mph, and to give more space at higher speeds.
Why it matters
Giving enough space can:
- Prevent serious injuries
- Reduce stress for everyone on the road
- Encourage more people to walk and cycle safely
- Make our roads safer for everyone, no matter how short the journey
Whether you drive, cycle, or do both, understanding Rule 163 is key to safer journeys.
Image source think.gov.ukTips for safely overtaking cyclists
Leave enough space
- At least 1.5m at speeds up to 30mph
- More space when driving faster
- In slow traffic, give cyclists at least the same space as you would a car
Overtake only when safe and legal
- Check the road ahead for bends, junctions, or hazards
- Make sure you have enough time and space to pass safely
Reduce your speed
- Approach cyclists calmly
- Avoid sudden acceleration or loud engine noise
Be patient at corners or pinch points
- Cyclists may need extra space to navigate safely
Give extra room for groups or at night
- Cyclists often ride two-abreast for safety
- Take extra care in poor weather, low light, or high winds
Look out for sudden movements
- Cyclists may need to move to avoid potholes, debris, drains, or opening car doors
Passing pedestrians safely
Pedestrians may be walking in the road where there is no pavement, where pavements are obstructed, or in rural areas.
When overtaking pedestrians, drivers should:
- Leave at least 2 metres of space at speeds up to 30mph
- Give more space when travelling faster
- Be especially cautious near children, older people, or groups
- Slow down and be prepared to wait if there isn’t enough room to pass safely
Pedestrians may move unpredictably to avoid puddles, uneven surfaces, or traffic. Passing slowly and wide helps reduce risk and fear.
Image source think.gov.ukPassing horses safely
Horses can be easily startled by noise or close passes. Even a calm horse can react suddenly, putting riders and drivers at serious risk.
The Highway Code advises drivers to:
- Leave at least 2 metres when passing horses at speeds up to 30mph
- Pass wide and slow, ideally at no more than 10mph
- Avoid sounding the horn or revving the engine
- Be patient – wait behind the horse if the road is too narrow to overtake safely
Horse-riders may signal to drivers to slow down. Following this advice helps protect riders, drivers, and the animal itself.
Image source think.gov.ukOur close pass campaign
Our campaign runs from April 2026. We’re raising awareness of Rule 163 across Cambridgeshire through:
- Temporary roadside signs
- Advertising on buses
- A press release to traditional media outlets
- Social media promotion
- Promotional videos
- Stickers on our vehicle fleet
Temporary road signs
Temporary road signs will be in place from April 2026 through to September 2027 as part of a signage trial. If successful, the signage, a version of which is already in use elsewhere in the UK, may be considered for longer term use in England.
Remember
If you can’t overtake safely, don’t. Wait until it’s safe to pass.
