New Laws Protect Bicyclists in Kalamazoo and the Entire State of Michigan

Laws passed in Kalamazoo and proposed statewide delineate 5 feet of space for cars passing bicyclists and offer other protections for those on 2 wheels.

A day after Newschannel 3 reported that the Kalamazoo City Commission passed a local ordinance protecting cyclists, State Senator Margaret O'Brien of Portage has sponsored a bill mandating stiff penalties for motorists who injure or kill bicyclists on Michigan roadways.

Kalamazoo City Commissioners approved a new law requiring cars to leave 5 feet of space between their vehicle and a cyclist they are passing. MLive clarifies the new regulation:

While passing a bicycle going in the same direction, a vehicle must move to the closest available lane or stay 5 feet away on a single lane road. To accommodate narrower streets, motorists are allowed to pass over double yellow lines to pass a bicyclist.

-MLive reporting on new Kalamazoo ordinance

There is also a statewide proposal (House Bill 5003) requiring 5 feet of space everywhere in Michigan.

The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle proceeding in the same direction shall pass at a safe distance of at least 5 feet to the left of the bicycle.

-Michigan House Bill 5003 (proposed)

Senator Margaret O'Brien of Portage is a sponsor of 5003 and another proposal that increases penalties as Senate Bill 1029 would make it a felony with up to 15 years of imprisonment for motorists who kill bicyclists and other vulnerable roadway users.

The bills now advance to the full Senate for consideration.

Bonus Video: Kalamazoo Ride of Silence