Why should you be cautious when passing a bicycle?

Being cautious when passing a bicycle is important because cyclists may unexpectedly swerve into traffic. This can occur for various reasons, such as obstacles on the road, potholes, or debris. Cyclists are often more vulnerable and may need to make quick adjustments to maintain their balance or avoid hazards. This unpredictability means that as a driver, you should increase your awareness and ensure there is sufficient space when passing to avoid accidents.

While it is true that bicycles are generally slower than cars, this fact alone does not necessitate caution when passing. Similarly, while some cyclists may not always follow traffic signals, this behavior does not apply universally and should not be a reason to treat every cyclist with suspicion. Additionally, while bicycles do have the right of way in certain situations, the primary consideration here is the potential for sudden movements that could lead to collisions, thus emphasizing the need for caution.