Transportstyrelsen proposes new overtaking guidelines for cyclists

The Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) has released its findings regarding safety measures for overtaking cyclists and moped riders on roads. Instead of implementing a mandatory minimum distance rule, the agency recommends clearer guidelines to address perceived risks and improve the sense of security for vulnerable road users.

The proposal suggests that on roads with a speed limit of 70 km/h or higher, drivers should position their vehicles to the left of the center line or the middle of the roadway when overtaking. To facilitate this, the agency proposes allowing drivers to temporarily cross solid center lines, provided they exercise special caution. Additionally, drivers are encouraged to reduce speed during overtaking when the situation requires it.

Niclas Nilsson, an investigator at the agency, noted that while many countries have minimum distance rules, there is a lack of clear evaluations regarding their effectiveness. The agency's conclusions are based on research and consultations with relevant authorities and interest organizations, focusing on behavioral changes rather than strict distance measurements which are difficult for police to enforce.