Free independent learning reference with original examples. These are not official exam questions or individualized legal advice. Follow current signs, provincial rules and on-site directions.
Free cyclist and road-sharing questions →Keep both the space requirement and the safety condition
The provincial road-sharing guidance describes Ellen’s Law as requiring at least one metre between the vehicle and bicycle during a same-direction pass. Section 149(3) also requires signalling the intended pass and not returning to the right until safely clear. A momentary gap at the front bumper does not settle the whole manoeuvre.
Check the space beside the cyclist as well as the path ahead and the space needed to return. Do not plan a pass that gives adequate clearance only by cutting back in immediately in front of the bicycle. Leaving a metre and completing the movement safely are conditions that work together.
Source: New Brunswick Motor Vehicle Act — §§149(3) and 152 ↗Wait when the road cannot accommodate a safe pass
A narrow lane, oncoming traffic or limited sight distance can prevent a safe pass. Slow down when necessary and remain behind until there is enough room. A cyclist’s slower speed does not remove the clearance requirement or authorize pushing them toward the edge.
The provincial safety page tells drivers they can cross a yellow line when safe with no oncoming traffic. Read that guidance with the Act’s other passing and sight-distance restrictions. It is not blanket permission to cross the centre line on a blind curve or disregard an applicable control. Avoid turning a short safety tip into an unrestricted exception.
Source: Government of New Brunswick — Sharing the road safely ↗Ask whether there is room for the whole pass
Original cyclist-passing cases
You follow a bicycle in a narrow lane and a car approaches in the opposite direction. Passing now would leave less than one metre. Wait; fitting through without touching the bicycle is not the legal clearance test.
The oncoming lane becomes clear, but the road bends before you can see enough distance to complete the manoeuvre. Do not assume the absence of a visible vehicle proves a safe gap. Wait for adequate sight and a lawful passing opportunity.
You have passed the cyclist’s front wheel but are not safely clear of the bicycle. Keep appropriate clearance and do not cut back prematurely. The end of the pass matters as much as its beginning.
Look for cyclists beyond the passing question
The provincial advice also reminds drivers to look before opening a door and avoid driving or parking in bike lanes. These are separate hazards: a correct one-metre answer does not resolve a door opening into a rider’s path or a vehicle blocking the cyclist’s route.
Practise the free sharing-the-road and passing topics, then explain why an unsafe gap requires waiting. Focus on clearance, visibility, signalling and safe return rather than memorizing a fine amount. These original examples are study material; the linked current provincial sources set out the actual rule.
Source: Government of New Brunswick — Sharing the road safely ↗