Final answer:
Georgia law requires drivers to allow a minimum of three feet when passing a cyclist. Safety when crossing a road involves estimating the speed of vehicles and ensuring a safe distance greater than the width of a car. Observations of vehicle speed can be made by timing how long they take to pass between fixed distances.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Georgia, it is a legal requirement for drivers to maintain a minimum distance of three feet when passing a bicycle. This safety measure helps to prevent collisions and ensure the wellbeing of cyclists who are sharing the road with motor vehicles. When considering the safe distance to cross the street, it's crucial to take into account the speed limit, the size of the vehicle, and one's own walking speed. For example, in a typical town or city with a speed limit of 60 km/hr, one should be able to walk at least 4 meters (2 m further than the width of an average car) before the vehicle reaches them. Additionally, when watching vehicles from a fixed point, such as a classroom window, one can estimate speed by measuring the time it takes for a car to travel between two points, such as street poles that are known to be 50 m apart. Using Bridget's observation, if most cars take 3 seconds to travel this distance, that implies they are moving at a speed of approximately 60 km/hr (assuming constant speed).