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What is the close pass cycling initiative?

West Midlands Police became the first force in the country to proactively target “close pass” drivers who endanger riders.

Rules of the road say motorists should give cyclists at least the same space as vehicles when overtaking.

Encroaching inside that safe passing distance

Anyone encroaching inside that safe passing distance – widely considered to be a minimum of 1.5 metres – runs the risk of being prosecuted for driving without due care and attention.

Officers saddle up on some of the region’s busiest routes looking out for motorists who put cyclists at risk. They will radio the details of close-pass drivers for in-car colleagues to stop drivers.

Drivers will be offered a road-side educational input on safe overtaking but repeat offenders, or anyone deemed to have driven dangerously close to a cyclist, can expect to be prosecuted and taken to court.

How can I report close pass drivers?

West Midlands Police can now take online reports of close pass drivers, as well as dangerous driving, as well as careless driving and using a mobile phone while driving.

For action to be taken, you will need to:

• know the alleged offending vehicle’s number plate

• be able to upload video footage, for example dash cam/cycle cam footage

• have independent witnesses or evidence of the alleged offence

• be willing to attend court and give evidence