Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has proposed tougher rules on cyclists to ensure they observe road laws, especially in 20mph zones in residential areas. Cyclists could also be subject to licence penalty points for speeding or running red lights.
He told the Daily Mail on Tuesday, August 16: “Somewhere where cyclists are actually not breaking the law is when they speed, and that cannot be right, so I absolutely propose extending speed limit restrictions to cyclists.
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“I don’t want to stop people from getting on their bike, it’s a fantastic way to travel, and we’ve seen a big explosion of cycling during Covid and since.
“But I see no reason why cyclists should break the road laws and be able to get away with it.”
Road laws solicitor Nick Freeman told the Daily Mail: “This is something that needs to happen for everyone’s safety and Grant Shapps should be congratulated for eventually listening.”
Most adult cyclists have liability insurance under their household policy or separate bike insurance through membership of organisations such as British Cycling or Cycling UK.
However, Mr Shapps is exploring the introduction of mandatory third-party insurance.
This move would allow victims and their families to claim compensation following accidents.
Mr Shapps may lose his position under the new Prime Minister’s Cabinet but said he hopes his successor will continue with the review.
So what do YOU think? Should cyclists be given speeding fines? And should cyclists be made to take out insurance? Vote in our poll and leave your thoughts in the comment section below.
