How to Safely Overtake Cyclists

Keeping Cyclists Safe on the Road – A Guide for Professional HGV Drivers

When you're behind the wheel of a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV), you're responsible for more than just your own safety — you're also sharing the road with vulnerable users, especially cyclists. With limited visibility and large blind spots, it's vital that HGV drivers remain vigilant and respectful of those on two wheels.

Why Cyclist Awareness Matters for HGV Drivers

Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users. They lack the protective shell of a vehicle, and even a small misjudgement from an HGV can lead to devastating consequences. One key moment where this matters most is when waiting to overtake.

Avoid the “Looming Presence”

Sitting too close behind a cyclist when waiting to pass can make them feel anxious and unsafe. This “looming presence” of a large vehicle can cause panic or distraction — sometimes even leading to a loss of balance. Always give cyclists ample breathing space while waiting to overtake, and avoid intimidating road behaviour.

The Safe Way to Overtake a Cyclist

When the road ahead is clear and it’s time to pass, it’s crucial to follow these HGV overtaking best practices:

• Allow a minimum of 1.5 metres of space when overtaking (more at higher speeds)

• Do not cut in too early after overtaking

• Conduct a left mirror follow-through check to ensure the entire length of your vehicle has passed safely

• Signal clearly and in good time

• Be patient – wait for a safe opportunity rather than forcing the overtake

Use Your Mirrors – Especially the Left Follow-Through

After overtaking a cyclist, the left mirror follow-through check is critical. This ensures the back of your trailer or vehicle isn’t still alongside or too close to the cyclist before you pull back into your lane. Failing to do so could result in side swipes or forcing the cyclist off-road.

A Culture of Road Safety Starts With Us

As professional drivers, HGV operators are held to high standards — and rightly so. Setting an example by sharing the road safely helps reduce accidents and builds a safer environment for all.

Let’s commit to making the roads safer, calmer, and more respectful for every road user — whether they’re on 18 wheels or just two.

Looking to sharpen your road safety knowledge or train for your HGV licence?

Get in touch with Craig Baker Driver Training – the trusted name in professional HGV driver training across the North West, North East, Midlands and London.