There is a NH state law that requires motorists to allow bicyclists at least three feet of clearance when passing, with an additional foot required for every 10 mph increment above 30 mph. The law also allows bicyclists to pass stationary cars and trucks on the right side when safe and enables bicyclists to use designated traffic turn lanes. To aid motorists, bicyclists traveling at night will be required to wear at least one item of reflective clothing.
Please note that the passing clearance rules apply to the part of your vehicle closest to a bicycle rider – in many cases this is your side mirror. Too many bicycle riders get clipped by side mirrors of passing cars – this can cause extremely serious injuries to the bicycle rider – even death if it causes the rider to crash or veer off the road, and the driver of the vehicle is liable for any injuries they cause!
Click Here to see the safety laws that apply to bicyclists and to motorists when they are faced with bicycles on the road. REMEMBER – THESE ARE STATE LAWS AND VIOLATING THE LAWS CAN LEAVE YOU SUBJECT TO LEGAL ACTION UP TO AND INCLUDING ARREST!
Special thanks to Dave Topham, the founder of the Bike-Walk Alliance of New Hampshire , who championed the bill and worked hard to get it passed!
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