Parliamentary.ai

Overview

This bill amends existing road traffic laws to introduce new criminal offences for cyclists who cause death or serious injury through dangerous, careless, or inconsiderate riding. It clarifies the legal definitions and sets out penalties for these actions.

Description

The bill modifies the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988. Key changes include:

• Causing death by dangerous cycling: A new offence is created for cyclists causing death through dangerous riding, defined similarly to existing car-related offences.
• Causing serious injury by dangerous cycling: This introduces a similar offence for causing serious injury (defined as grievous bodily harm in England and Wales, and severe physical injury in Scotland).
• Causing death by careless or inconsiderate cycling: This creates an offence for causing death through careless or inconsiderate cycling.
• Penalties: Penalties vary depending on the severity of the offence and whether the case is heard summarily or on indictment. For causing death by dangerous cycling, the maximum sentence is 14 years imprisonment. For causing serious injury or death by dangerous or careless cycling, the maximum sentences are 5 and 5 years respectively, with options of fines or shorter prison sentences depending on the court’s decision.
• Bicycle Maintenance: The definition of "competent and careful cyclist" now includes the requirement that their cycle be equipped and maintained according to relevant regulations.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. However, increased prosecutions and potential legal costs could lead to increased spending on the justice system.

Groups Affected

• Cyclists: Cyclists will be directly affected by the new offences and penalties. They could face prosecution and penalties if found guilty of dangerous or careless cycling that results in death or serious injury.
• Pedestrians and other road users: This group could potentially benefit from enhanced safety as the bill aims to deter dangerous cycling behaviour.
• Police and Courts: Increased enforcement and prosecution of cycling offences will impact police and court resources.