Overview

This bill aims to introduce new criminal offences for dangerous, careless, or inconsiderate cycling, covering pedal cycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters. It will create specific offences for causing death or serious injury through such cycling, with varying penalties depending on the severity of the offense.

Description

The bill amends the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988. It introduces three new offences:

• Causing death by dangerous cycling: This applies to deaths caused by dangerous cycling (as defined in the existing Act) and carries a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.
• Causing serious injury by dangerous cycling: This covers serious injuries caused by dangerous cycling. Penalties include up to 5 years imprisonment or a fine, depending on whether the case is heard summarily or on indictment.
• Causing death by careless or inconsiderate cycling: This relates to deaths caused by cycling without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for others. Penalties are similar to causing serious injury by dangerous cycling.

The definition of "a cycle" is expanded to include e-bikes, e-scooters and other mechanically propelled personal transporters. The bill also clarifies that a "competent and careful cyclist" maintains their cycle in accordance with regulations.

Government Spending

The bill does not directly specify any changes to government spending. The cost of implementing the new laws (e.g., increased court cases, police enforcement) is likely to increase slightly, although specific figures are not provided in the bill.

Groups Affected

• Cyclists: Cyclists will be directly affected by the new offences, facing potential prosecution for dangerous or careless riding. This could lead to fines, imprisonment, or both.
• E-scooter and E-bike users: The expanded definition explicitly includes e-scooter and e-bike users under the new legislation.
• Pedestrians and other road users: This group could see improved safety as the bill aims to deter dangerous cycling behaviour. They might see more prosecution of dangerous cyclists leading to fewer accidents.
• The police and courts: Increased workload related to investigating and prosecuting offences under this legislation.

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