Overview

This bill aims to create new criminal offences for dangerous, careless, or inconsiderate cycling, including the use of e-bikes and e-scooters. It also mandates a review of the impact of e-scooter misuse on road safety.

Description

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

• New Offences: Introduces offences for causing death or serious injury by dangerous cycling (including e-bikes and e-scooters). Separate offences are created for causing death by careless or inconsiderate cycling.
• Penalties: Sets out penalties for these new offences, ranging from fines and imprisonment (up to 14 years for causing death by dangerous cycling) depending on the severity of the offence and whether the case is tried summarily or on indictment.
• Definition of "Cycle": Broadens the definition of "cycle" to explicitly include pedal cycles, e-bikes, and various types of e-scooters.
• E-scooter Review: Requires the Secretary of State to conduct a review within 12 months of the bill passing, examining the impact of e-scooter misuse on road safety, considering the different risks posed by privately owned versus rental e-scooters, and evaluating the effectiveness of existing regulations. This review may lead to further legislation specifically targeting e-scooter misuse.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. However, costs may arise from the review of e-scooter misuse, potential future legislation based on that review, and increased enforcement of the new cycling offences.

Groups Affected

Groups potentially affected include:

• Cyclists: Face new criminal liabilities for dangerous or careless riding, potentially leading to fines or imprisonment.
• E-scooter users: Subject to the new offences and potentially further restrictions following the government review.
• Pedestrians and drivers: May benefit from increased safety due to the new offences and potential e-scooter regulations.
• Law enforcement: Will need to enforce the new offences.
• The courts: Will be involved in processing cases under the new legislation.

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