The conclusion made in the video is that when drivers see a helmet, they treat the cyclist as someone who knows what they're doing. You therefore see closer passes and less exaggerated swerves into the opposite lane.

I'm personally fine by this. I actually PREFER cars to pass closer. Am I crazy? Probably but my rationale though is that as long as the car isn't hitting me or causing me to change course its fine and the further they stay out of the opposite lane the safer it is for other drivers on the road.