Politics & Government

New Law Requires 3-Foot Buffer Zone Between Bicyclists, Motorists

Previous legislation asked drivers to pass cyclists only at a safe distance.

Motorists trying to pass bicyclists on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu will soon have to stay at least three feet away under a law signed by Gov. Jerry Brown Monday.

The bill -- which aims to protect bicyclists from harassment from passing motorists -- will go into effect next September. 

Previous legislation asked drivers to pass cyclists only at a safe distance.


Malibu is unique because its main thoroughfare is a major highway. Last year, a bicyclist was killed when she struck an uneven patch of roadway on PCH and swerved into the path of a metro bus. 

The city of Malibu is currently working on a Pacific Coast Highway Safety Study. Also, Caltrans recently approved funding for bike route improvements on PCH, according to Malibu City Manager Jim Thorsen. 

Do you think this new law will prove difficult to implement in Malibu or will it be a welcome change? Will it make PCH safer? Tell us in the comments. 

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