joey48442 wrote:
I dont think you fully understand what I mean. That was just an example. When coming over one hill when suddenly there is a cyclist in front of you, and you are about to crest the next hill, there is nothing you can safely do but pass. And Im not going to cross the center line. But thats just an example. In any situation, the cyclist is unfortunately the one I would rather hit, than hitting something much larger, like another car. Just like I would rather hit a Miata than hit a Sierra.
See what Im saying?
They have the right to be there, just like motorcycles, Miatas, P71s and Hummers. There is just an order to who I would choose to run into...
Joey
Hmm... I guess you're right. I don't fully understand why slowing down and waiting until it is safe to pass is not an option. I am not seeking out a pissing match here, I am just trying to point out that the rules of the road regarding passing other vehicles apply to passing cyclists also. Just because it's a bike and you can squeeze by him without crossing the double yellow doesn't make it legal. You should pass where passing is allowed, and you should move over into the other lane when doing so.
From the NC Motor Vehicle Code:
20-150. Limitations on privilege of overtaking and passing.
(a) The driver of a vehicle shall not drive to the left side of the center of a highway, in overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction, unless such left side is clearly visible and is free of oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead to permit such overtaking and passing to be made in safety.
(b) The driver of a vehicle shall not overtake and pass another vehicle proceeding in the same direction upon the crest of a grade or upon a curve in the highway where the driver's view along the highway is obstructed within a distance of 500 feet.
Now, this doesn't mean that you still pass but you don't cross the center line, it means you don't pass there, period. 
From the Guide to NC Bicycle and Pedestrian Laws:
Passing a Bicycle
A motorist overtaking a bicycle must pass at least two (2) feet to the left of the bicyclist and must not move back to the right side of the highway until safely past the overtaken bicycle. [§20-149(a)]
A motorist may not drive left of the center ofthe highway to pass a vehicle, including a bicycle, in these circumstances:
• Unless the left side is clearly visible and free of
oncoming traffic for a sufficient distance ahead
that the motorist can pass the bicyclist safely.
[§20-150(a)]
• On the crest of a hill or at a curve in the road
where the driver cannot see at least 500 feet ahead. [§20-150(b)]
• At any railroad grade crossing or intersection,
unless directed to do so by a traffic control
officer. [§20-150(c)]
• Where the Department of Transportation has
placed signs or markers indicating that passing
should not be attempted. [§20-150(d)] and [(e)]
I am sure the laws are similar in your area. 
) That is why the get so little respect. 
