Study Shows Bike Lanes Result in Closer Passing

A UK study determined that motorists pass cyclists closer when bike lanes are present. Washcycle does a nice job discussing the study. Is the average passing distance what matters? Or is it the outliers - those who pass extremely close - that matter?

The outliers are the cars closer to hitting you; however, safety has more factors than how close a motorized vehicle passes you. If more bicycle lanes get more people on a bicycle, the roads might be safer. If having  a bicycle lane makes people more at risk for a right hook, the roads might not be as safe.

The question to ask is there a higher rate of accidents per cyclist on roads with bicycle lanes? I don't think this study come close to answering that.