The Albany County Legislature recently passed a law requiring drivers to maintain at least three feet of distance when passing vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, horse riders, construction workers, and emergency services personnel. If this space is not available, drivers must slow down and only pass safely. Edward Brennan, President of the Albany Bicycle Coalition, views the law as primarily educational, emphasizing the importance of signage to remind drivers of the three-foot rule, given the inherent danger of close passes by vehicles.

This local legislation aligns with similar laws in other New York counties like Ulster, Monroe, and Suffolk, as well as 40 states plus D.C., which mandate a three-foot passing distance for cyclists and other vulnerable users. While New York state law currently requires only a vague “safe distance,” Albany County’s law imposes fines for violations, reflecting growing local efforts to protect vulnerable road users amid stalled statewide legislation. The bill was supported by local legislators Susan Laurilliard and Sam Fein and modeled after Vermont’s law to ensure broad protection.