There are new rules for the road drivers should be aware of.

Drivers must now keep new minimum distances from people walking and riding on roads in British Columbia.

Drivers will be required to keep at least one metre away when passing vulnerable road users..

They include pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, individuals on animals or in vehicles pulled by animals, and people who use electric wheelchairs, mobility scooters and electric kick scooters.

When passing, drivers must keep a minimum distance of one metre on highways with speeds of 50 km/h or less; and one-and-a-half metres on highways with speeds of 51 km/h or more.

The distances are measured from the furthest protruding part of a passing motor vehicle, such as a mirror, to the furthest protruding part of a vulnerable road user or their equipment, such as a handlebar.

Police can issue tickets for violations with penalties of $109 and three penalty points for failing to take proper precautions, and $368 and three points for failing to maintain the minimum distance.

The maximum fine is $2,000 and six months in jail.