Here's a story from a State which shares a common border with New York:

http://www.timesargus.com/apps/pbcs....015/FEATURES06

Vermont cyclists lobby for 3-foot law

January 27, 2008
By JENNY NIXON CARTER Correspondent

The Vermont legislature is considering several bills this session that would protect cyclists on the road.

The three bills (H-577 Vulnerable Users; H-578 and S-275: 3-Foot Law) will recognize the vulnerability of cyclists on Vermont roads and require an area of safety around cyclists. These bills, if passed, would protect both motorists and cyclists alike and improve the safety of Vermont roads.

In Vermont, cyclists assume the same rights and responsibilities on the road as drivers of motor vehicles, except where a law does not apply (such as seat belts and speed). For obvious reasons, cyclists are more vulnerable than motorists in both accidents and close interactions.

The proposed language would create a 3-foot minimum passing distance between motorists and cyclists. It would also require cars to turn right only when safe, allows cyclists to use the full lane when negotiating complex intersections and allows cyclists to pass cars on the right.

The Vermont Bicycle and Pedestrian Coalition is a non-profit organization that works to promote bicycling and walking in Vermont, emphasizing access, safety and education. The coalition is actively gathering signatures on a petition in support of the proposed law.

"Motorists passing bicyclists too closely create a dangerous situation by not allowing cyclists maneuvering room to avoid hazards or by causing a dangerous wind blast," according to Nancy Schulz, executive director of the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition. "A 3-foot minimum passing distance addresses this inherent vulnerability by placing the responsibility on motorists, who are not only protected but have better visibility since they are the passing vehicle, to leave adequate room."

Eight other states have similar legislation in place, including Maine. Anecdotal evidence suggests that having these laws in place increases both motorist and cyclist awareness of their surroundings and decreases potentially harmful interactions.

Providing a minimum passing distance is especially important in places like Rutland County, which lacks specific biking infrastructure. Rutland County does not have dedicated bike lanes. A 3-foot passing distance between motorists and cyclists would protect cyclists who literally "share the road" with motorists.

In addition, having a specific minimum passing distance is important in motorist and cyclist education. Many drivers simply do not know that cyclists need enough space on the road and should be made aware. And cyclists need to be mindful of their own riding patterns, both individually and in groups, and ride responsibly and safely at all times.

The 3-foot law needs your support. To read more about it and sign an on-line petition supporting this proposed law, go to: www.vtbikeped.org.

Jenny Nixon Carter is the executive director of the Rutland Area Physical Activity Coalition. She rides her bikes on roads and trails throughout Rutland County. She can be reached at 353-0037 or contact@rapac.info.