- require motorists to overtake bicyclists safely, with at least a 3-foot margin. State law already requires vehicles to pass other vehicles safely. A 3-foot law will better communicate a safe passing distance for road sharing motorists and bicyclists.
- support the legal concept of bicycles as vehicles. As vehicles, bicycles belong on the road and are to abide by traffic laws, just as motor vehicles. Thus, bicyclists – as vehicle operators – should also be treated with respect by motorists.
- uphold the rights and responsibilities of bicyclists and motorists by encouraging operator education. In states which have enacted the law, it is used as an educational tool to promote safe practices by motorists.
- move South Dakota higher in national rankings as a bicycle-friendly state. The state’s reputation for scenic bicycle routes is building the bicycle tourism market, now hosting over 1000 cyclists in multi-day tours each year. This number could explode as the state supports a message to safely share the road, as reinforced through a 3-foot law.