A new City of Austin ordinance went into effect Monday requiring a 3-foot space between cars and cyclists or other vulnerable road users. Police plan to enforce it by looking for dangerous drivers, both in vehicles and on bicycles.
It seems the University of Texas area is always buzzing with traffic.
"It's really heavy pretty much all of the time," said Amanda Moncada.
Cars and bikes weave in and out lanes. But beginning November 2, there will have to be more space.
"I think it's a great idea if people in cars know the rules," said Fred Chieux, cyclist.
A new Austin city ordinance requires a 3-foot buffer zone between vehicles and bikes.
"The bicyclist also has to be sure they're making very wise decisions while they're driving. As you know, there's a lot of traffic, and if they make a wrong choice it can really hurt them," said Linda Del Toro.
Austin police say both drivers and cyclists are responsible for following the new ordinance.
"We are looking for dangerous patterns -- dangerous driving patterns by both vehicles and bicyclists. Whoever it is that happens to be driving dangerously, they're the ones who will be cited," said APD Corporal Scott Perry.
Police officers will use their judgment to determine whether a driver or cyclist crosses that 3-foot zone. Tickets are Class C misdemeanors, with a fine of $500.
"I think would probably be pretty hard to enforce, because you're going to have lots of people pushing the limits. But it's a good idea. It seems a lot safer than dodging between cars and getting really really close," said Moncada.
Because a close call - is just a whisper away from someone getting hurt.
