New state '3-foot rule' gives bicyclists a buffer against motorists

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- A new California law goes into effect on Tuesday that gives bicyclists a bit of a cushion against accidents with motorists. It's called the "3-foot rule."

Drivers have to be at least three feet away from a bicyclist when they pass them.

The CHP says in 2012, the last year for which statistics are available, 153 bicyclists died in accidents. That is a 7 percent increase from the previous year. This new law is intended to bring those numbers down.

If you're not sure how wide three feet is, the CHP says you're probably too close to the bicycle. Three feet is 36 inches.

David Kimberling was the victim of a hit and run. He welcomes the buffer law. "I think anything that fosters awareness with bicyclists, who share the road in traffic, helps," says Kimberling.

A drive around San Francisco and on average, most drivers were mindful of bicyclists and shared the road safely. It helps that San Francisco has a wide network of bike lanes which remind drivers to give extra room to bicyclists.

Some drivers have no problem with the new law. "I think we both have to watch out for each other," said one car driver.

"They're using the road too, so we should be aware of each other," said another.

However, some bicyclists say they aren't too sure drivers will follow the new law. "You know, I've already had two cabs come within a foot of me today, so I doubt it," says a cyclist.

The CHP says it's not gearing up for any enforcement campaign. So bottom line of this new law? It'll work only if drivers follow it.