Every Person Deserves to Get Home Safely: Pass a 3-Foot Safe Passing Law in Dutchess Count
The Issue
I never imagined that simply riding my bicycle would end with me being hit by a driver.
Unfortunately, it has happened to me—not once, but twice.
Those crashes changed my life and reinforced something that thousands of people in Dutchess County experience every day: our roads can be frightening and unforgiving for anyone outside a vehicle. Whether you're biking to work, walking your dog, pushing a stroller, or taking your child for a ride, one driver passing too closely can have devastating consequences.
It doesn't have to be this way.
We're asking the Dutchess County Legislature to adopt a 3-foot safe passing law, requiring drivers to leave at least three feet of space when passing people riding bicycles and other vulnerable road users.
This is a simple, common-sense measure that has already been adopted in more than 35 states across the country. A defined passing distance gives drivers a clear expectation, helps law enforcement address unsafe passing, and reminds everyone that our roads are shared spaces—not just for cars, but for people.
A close pass at 30 or 40 miles per hour isn't just uncomfortable—it's dangerous. Even a slight drift by a driver, an unexpected gust of wind, or the need for a cyclist to avoid debris can turn a routine trip into a tragedy. Three feet provides a safer margin that can prevent serious crashes before they happen.
This isn't just about people who ride bicycles.
It's about making Dutchess County safer for everyone. It's about children riding to school, families taking evening walks, older adults crossing the street, runners, wheelchair users, and every resident who deserves to travel safely in their own community.
Communities thrive when people feel safe enough to walk, bike, and spend time outside. Safer streets mean healthier residents, stronger local businesses, less traffic congestion, and a better quality of life for everyone.
New York State has not yet established a defined minimum passing distance. Dutchess County has an opportunity to lead by taking meaningful action now and setting an example for communities across the state.
A three-foot safe passing law won't solve every traffic safety problem, but it is an important step toward preventing avoidable crashes and building a culture of respect on our roads.
If you believe everyone deserves to get home safely—whether they travel by car, bike, wheelchair, or on foot—please sign this petition.
Then share it with your friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family. Every signature sends a clear message that Dutchess County residents support safer streets and expect our elected leaders to act.
Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone.
203
The Issue
I never imagined that simply riding my bicycle would end with me being hit by a driver.
Unfortunately, it has happened to me—not once, but twice.
Those crashes changed my life and reinforced something that thousands of people in Dutchess County experience every day: our roads can be frightening and unforgiving for anyone outside a vehicle. Whether you're biking to work, walking your dog, pushing a stroller, or taking your child for a ride, one driver passing too closely can have devastating consequences.
It doesn't have to be this way.
We're asking the Dutchess County Legislature to adopt a 3-foot safe passing law, requiring drivers to leave at least three feet of space when passing people riding bicycles and other vulnerable road users.
This is a simple, common-sense measure that has already been adopted in more than 35 states across the country. A defined passing distance gives drivers a clear expectation, helps law enforcement address unsafe passing, and reminds everyone that our roads are shared spaces—not just for cars, but for people.
A close pass at 30 or 40 miles per hour isn't just uncomfortable—it's dangerous. Even a slight drift by a driver, an unexpected gust of wind, or the need for a cyclist to avoid debris can turn a routine trip into a tragedy. Three feet provides a safer margin that can prevent serious crashes before they happen.
This isn't just about people who ride bicycles.
It's about making Dutchess County safer for everyone. It's about children riding to school, families taking evening walks, older adults crossing the street, runners, wheelchair users, and every resident who deserves to travel safely in their own community.
Communities thrive when people feel safe enough to walk, bike, and spend time outside. Safer streets mean healthier residents, stronger local businesses, less traffic congestion, and a better quality of life for everyone.
New York State has not yet established a defined minimum passing distance. Dutchess County has an opportunity to lead by taking meaningful action now and setting an example for communities across the state.
A three-foot safe passing law won't solve every traffic safety problem, but it is an important step toward preventing avoidable crashes and building a culture of respect on our roads.
If you believe everyone deserves to get home safely—whether they travel by car, bike, wheelchair, or on foot—please sign this petition.
Then share it with your friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family. Every signature sends a clear message that Dutchess County residents support safer streets and expect our elected leaders to act.
Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone.
The Decision Makers
Petition Updates
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Petition created on April 2, 2026