Which vehicles may be overtaken only by maintaining a specially great lateral distance?

In Germany, traffic rules emphasize the safety of vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists. When overtaking these vehicles, it's essential to maintain a sufficient lateral distance to ensure their safety. This is particularly important as both groups can be more susceptible to accidents caused by vehicles passing too closely.

Bicycles and motorcycles are included in this requirement because they may require additional space due to their size and the potential for instability. While trams are also a consideration in traffic regulations, the specific focus here was on bicycles and motorcycles. This means it’s not just important to recognize that you should provide extra space when passing these vehicles, but also to understand the rationale behind it—protecting the safety of all users on the road.