Rule 212 ↗
Give motorcyclists, cyclists, horse riders, horse drawn vehicles and pedestrians walking in the road (for example, where there is no pavement), at least as much room as you would when overtaking a car (see Rules 162 to 167). Drivers should take extra care and give more space when overtaking motorcyclists, cyclists, horse riders, horse drawn vehicles and pedestrians in bad weather (including high winds) and at night. If the rider looks over their shoulder it could mean that they intend to pull out, turn right or change direction. Give them time and space to do so.
SAFE OVERTAKING : UNDERSTANDING RULE 212
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📖 Rule 212 Full Regulations & Explanation
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SAFE OVERTAKING : UNDERSTANDING RULE 212
THE GOLDEN RULE OF SPACE
Give the Same Room as You Would a Car
When overtaking , drivers must provide at least as much lateral space as they would when passing a standard motor vehicle .
IDENTIFYING VULNERABLE ROAD USERS
Motorcyclists and Cyclists: Two - wheeled vehicles are highly susceptible to being buffeted by wind or passing traffic .
Horse Riders and Horse - Drawn Vehicles: These users require extra patience and wide berths to avoid startling the animals .
Pedestrians in the Road
In areas without pavements , podestrians walking in the roadway must be given ample space and consideration .
CONDITIONS REQUIRING EXTRA CAUTION
Bad Weather and High Winds: Drivers should take extra care and provide even more space during storms or high winds , which can blow riders off course .
Low Visibility at Night: Overtaking maneuvers at night require increased vigilance and larger safety gaps to account for reduced depth perception .
READING THE RIDER'S INTENT
Watch for the " Shoulder Check ": If a rider looks over their shoulder , it is a primary indicator they intend to turn right , pull out , or change direction .
Give Them Time and Space
Once a signal or shoulder check is observed , the driver must allow the rider sufficient time and room to complete their maneuver before proceeding .