When faced with an oncoming car to the left and a bicyclist to the right, you should:
- Pull onto the shoulder.
- Split the difference.
- Let the car pass and then pass the bike. ✓
- Pass the bike quickly.
Answer: C. Let the car pass and then pass the bike.
Let the oncoming car pass, then pass the bicyclist.
Why this is the answer
The handbook's passing steps tell you to check for oncoming traffic in the left lane and make sure you have enough time and space to overtake and return before an approaching car gets close. With a car coming toward you, that room is not there yet, so the safe move is to wait for it to clear. Then you can pass the bicyclist on the left, following the same passing checks.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Pull onto the shoulder. — The handbook's passing procedure has you check mirrors, blind spots, and oncoming traffic and then pass on the left, not pull onto the shoulder.
- B. Split the difference. — The passages do not describe splitting the difference or squeezing between the car and the bike; they call for enough time and space with oncoming traffic clear.
- D. Pass the bike quickly. — Passing the bike quickly while the car is still coming leaves you without the clear oncoming lane and space the handbook requires before overtaking.
Remember it
When two hazards crowd you, let the oncoming traffic clear before you move around the bike.