The California Department of Motor Vehicles is alerting drivers about a new law requiring them to give bicyclists, traveling in the same direction, 3 feet of clearance when passing. The Three Feet for Safety Act takes effect Sept. 16

According to the new law (AB1371), which Gov. Edmund G. Brown, Jr. signed a year ago on Sept. 23, 2013, if traffic or roadway conditions prevent motorists from giving cyclists 3 feet of space, drivers must “slow to a speed that is reasonable and prudent” and only pass when a cyclist will not be in danger. Violations are punishable by a $35 fine.

Motorists who collide with cyclists and injure them while violating the Three Feet for Safety Act can be subject to a $220 fine. Under the previous law, a vehicle was simply required to pass to the left at a “safe distance.”

Bicycle riders on public roads have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists, and are subject to the same rules and regulations. Refer to the California Driver Handbook for more information.

DMV advises that “motorists must look carefully for bicyclists before turning left or right, merging into bicycle lanes, and opening doors next to moving traffic. Respect the right-of-way of bicyclists because they are entitled to share the road with you.”

California is among 24 states requiring motorists to give bicyclists 3 feet of clearance while passing, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.