New laws to be introduced to prosecute dangerous cyclists.

On the 15th of May, Ministers backed an amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill that introduced three new offences: causing death by dangerous cycling; causing serious injury by careless or inconsiderate cycling; and causing death by careless or inconsiderate cycling.

Because bikes aren’t fitted with speedometers, cyclists can’t be charged with speeding offences. However, if they are re considered to be going too fast for the conditions, they could be charges with ‘wanton or furious cycling’ which is a criminal offence under section 35 of the Offences Against the Persons Act 1861 (as amended by the Criminal Justice Act 1948 s1(2)).

Currently, cyclists in the UK who kill or seriously injure someone whilst riding can be jailed for a maximum of two years. However, if the new law passes through the House of Lords, cyclists will soon face the same penalties as drivers, who can be given a maximum sentence of 14 years.

The new laws would require cyclists to make sure their bikes are "equipped and maintained" in a legal way, and would apply to pedal cycles, e-bikes, e-scooters and e-unicycles.

If you are under investigation or being charged for road traffic offences, Lucinda Dore Road Traffic Solicitors are road traffic specialists and have more than 20-years’ experience representing clients who have been involved in cycling incidents. We can attend the police station with you, prepare statutory defences when applicable and defend against charges of alleged offences.

Email Lucinda Dore Solicitors for Road Traffic Law advice today lucinda@ldlegalservices.co.uk