Why is it important to maintain a safe distance from pedestrians and bicycles?

Maintaining a safe distance from pedestrians and bicycles is crucial primarily to avoid accidents. This distance provides the driver with adequate reaction time to respond to sudden movements from cyclists or pedestrians, who may not always predictably adhere to road rules. Safety is the top priority on the road, and keeping a safe distance reduces the risk of collisions, which can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Furthermore, it fosters a more harmonious relationship between different road users, ensuring that everyone can navigate the roadways safely and confidently.

Options related to fuel efficiency, compliance with traffic signals, and driving faster do not directly address the importance of safety in relation to the proximity of other road users, making them less relevant in the context of this question.