Overview

This bill amends existing road traffic laws to introduce new criminal offences for dangerous, careless, or inconsiderate cycling, covering pedal cycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters. It establishes penalties for causing death or serious injury through such cycling.

Description

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

• New Offences: Creates three new offences: causing death by dangerous cycling; causing serious injury by dangerous cycling; and causing death by careless or inconsiderate cycling. "Cycle" is broadly defined to include pedal cycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, and other similar vehicles.
• Dangerous Cycling Definition: Clarifies that "competent and careful cycling" includes properly equipped and maintained cycles.
• Penalties: Introduces penalties ranging from substantial fines and prison sentences of up to 14 years (for causing death by dangerous cycling) to lesser penalties for less serious offences. Penalties vary depending on whether the case is heard summarily or on indictment.
• Jurisdiction: The bill applies to England, Wales, and Scotland.
• Enforcement: The bill doesn't specify enforcement mechanisms but implies existing traffic law enforcement bodies will be responsible.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify any government spending. However, implementation may require additional resources for law enforcement, potentially increasing government expenditure on policing and the judicial system. The exact financial impact is not detailed within the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Cyclists: Cyclists will be directly affected by the introduction of these new offences and penalties. They face potential prosecution for dangerous or careless riding.
• E-scooter users: Users of e-scooters will be subject to the same regulations and potential penalties as cyclists.
• Law Enforcement: Police and other law enforcement agencies will be responsible for enforcing the new laws.
• The Courts: The judicial system will be responsible for hearing cases related to these new offences.
• Pedestrians and other road users: This bill aims to improve their safety by holding cyclists accountable for dangerous behaviour.

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