A record number of cyclists are reporting close passes by drivers, following major updates to the Highway Code introduced in January 2022.
The new rules require drivers to leave at least 1.5 metres (about 5 feet) of space when overtaking cyclists at speeds up to 30mph. At higher speeds, even more space is advised.
These changes were part of a wider update to protect vulnerable road users, including giving cyclists more rights at roundabouts, the freedom to ride in groups, and the ability to position themselves in the centre of a lane when necessary for safety.
Surge in Reports Since Rule Change
Since the rule change, the number of videos submitted to police showing close passes has more than doubled.
According to data obtained by the road safety charity IAM RoadSmart, police forces in England and Wales received 15,779 videos of close passes in 2023 — up from 7,249 in 2021.
Cyclists typically record these incidents using helmet or handlebar cameras, which cost around £50.
IAM RoadSmart submitted Freedom of Information requests to all 43 police forces. Of the 20 that responded, the percentage of reports leading to a formal warning or prosecution rose from 38% in 2021 to 54% in 2023.
Avon and Somerset Police received the highest number of video submissions (3,501), while Bedfordshire Police had the highest prosecution rate — with 90% of reports leading to action.
Lack of Awareness Among Drivers
Despite the legal changes, many drivers remain unaware of the rules.
A recent survey by IAM RoadSmart found that 58% of drivers didn’t know the minimum passing distance. Nearly a third said they regularly saw close passes, and 17% said they often saw drivers overtaking cyclists dangerously — such as on blind bends.
Harriet Hernando, Active Travel spokesperson at IAM RoadSmart, said:
“It’s worrying that so many drivers still don’t know how much space to give cyclists. Passing too closely is intimidating and dangerous, especially if a cyclist needs to avoid a pothole. While it’s good that more drivers are being prosecuted, ideally these incidents wouldn’t happen in the first place.”
Fatalities Still High
Provisional figures from the Department for Transport show that 85 cyclists were killed on UK roads in 2024. Most of these fatalities involved collisions with cars.
Duncan Dollimore from Cycling UK said the Highway Code changes have yet to deliver the safety improvements campaigners hoped for:
“Too many drivers still don’t know the rules. That’s why public awareness is vital. The Government must do more to promote the Highway Code and help protect vulnerable road users.”
Key 2022 Highway Code Changes to Protect Cyclists
In total, 50 changes were made to the Highway Code in January 2022. Here are six of the most important updates for cyclists:
- Cyclists can ride in the centre of a lane On quiet roads, or in slow-moving traffic, cyclists can position themselves in the middle of a lane. This is also advised when approaching junctions or narrow sections of road. Cyclists don’t have to use a cycle lane if they don’t want to.
- Cyclists can ride two abreast Groups of cyclists are allowed — and often encouraged — to ride two abreast, especially when riding with children or less confident riders. They should allow vehicles to pass when safe, for example by riding single file or pulling in.
- Cyclists can overtake on either side in slow traffic Cyclists are allowed to pass slow-moving or stationary traffic on either the left or right. Extra caution is advised when passing large vehicles or near junctions.
- Cyclists have priority when going straight at junctions When there are no dedicated cycle facilities, cyclists going straight ahead at junctions have priority over drivers turning across their path — unless road signs say otherwise. Cyclists are encouraged to ride in the middle of their lane to stay visible.
- Motorcyclists and drivers must give way at roundabouts Motorcyclists and drivers must not overtake cyclists on roundabouts and should allow them to move across lanes safely. Drivers also need to take extra care not to cut across cyclists or horse riders using the left-hand lane.
- Use of the 'Dutch Reach' to open car doors Drivers and passengers are advised to use their opposite hand to open their car door (e.g. left hand for a right-side door). This forces them to look over their shoulder, helping prevent "dooring" cyclists. Cyclists are advised to leave a one-metre gap when passing parked cars.
Other Key Rules Introduced
- Drivers must leave at least 2 metres when overtaking horse riders or pedestrians in the road (such as hikers) at speeds under 10mph.
Failing to leave safe space when overtaking can result in a charge of careless or dangerous driving, which may lead to a fine, driving ban, or even prison.
