When passing a stationary vehicle, what width should you aim to maintain?

When passing a stationary vehicle, maintaining a door width of space is crucial for safety. This distance allows a buffer zone to account for the potential opening of the vehicle's door, which can occur unexpectedly. A door width typically measures around 0.8 meters (or approximately 2.5 feet), providing ample space to avoid collision. This practice is essential in urban areas where parked vehicles are common, as cyclists and drivers alike must be vigilant of doors opening into the roadway.

While wider spaces, such as one meter or the full width of the lane, may seem safer, the door width distance strikes a balance between maximizing safety for both the person passing and any occupants exiting the vehicle. Maintaining only half a meter could be too close in scenarios where a door might swing open, increasing the risk of an accident. Thus, aiming for a door width is the optimal choice for ensuring safe passage alongside stationary vehicles.