Even if a cyclist is in a cycle lane, it is incumbent on drivers of large vehicles to drive with care and consideration around them. This is because a painted white line on the road offers no protection whatsoever. In this case, the driver should have hung back.
I am very happy that Leicestershire Police decided to take action in this case. As a result of my report to the police, the driver was offered, and subsequently completed, a driver education course as an alternative to prosecution.
It is good practice to drive around cyclists as you would around horses and riders.
Rule 163 of the Highway Code: (abridged)
Give motorcyclists, cyclists and horse riders and horse drawn vehicles at least as much room as you would when overtaking a car (see Rules 211 to 215).
As a guide:
• leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph, and give them more space when overtaking at higher speeds
• you should wait behind the motorcyclist, cyclist, horse rider, horse drawn vehicle or pedestrian and not overtake if it is unsafe or not possible to meet these clearances
Leicester UK
Humberstone Road
Bad cycle lane design
close pass
Careless and inconsiderate driving
cycling
bicycle
1.5m