Cyclists could face tougher punishments for killing or seriously injuring pedestrians as a leading Conservative MP puts forward plans for new legislation.
Under the proposal, cyclists could face equal punishments as drivers, and potentially face prison time for reckless cycling.
Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the MP for Chingford and Woodford Green, outlined the tougher punishments yesterday.
He suggested a series of amendments to the Criminal Justice Act which would hold cyclists who injure or kill pedestrians to account.
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The proposed changes were outlined by Sir Iain Duncan Smith
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According to the Telegraph, Smith spoke to Transport Secretary Mark Harper to discuss how the Government would support the initiative which is expected to be debated in Commons.
A Westminster source said: “There is general acceptance around the House of Commons that this should be done: the only question is how it should be done.”
Smith is hoping to close a “loophole” in the judicial system which has meant offenders are never charged as harshly as they potentially should be.
The current law means that if a cyclist kills a pedestrian while riding, they face imprisonment of up to two years only. However, under new measures, they could face up to 14 years – the same as dangerous drivers.
While the harsher sentences aim to deter cyclists from reckless behaviour, some have warned the new rules could risk “demonising” them.
Taking to social media, in response to Smith’s plea, one user said: “Don’t demonise all cyclists, I’m a cyclist and I ride with care and attention.
“I always go slow and carefully, I can never be labelled a ‘menace’ so refrain from using such inflammatory language.”
The proposed change by Smith includes creating an “offence of causing death or serious injury by dangerous, careless or inconsiderate cycling” clause.
It also hopes to introduce an offence of killing someone through “inconsiderate” cycling which also carries a similarly harsh punishment.
The additions to UK law would establish a requirement for bicycles to be “equipped and maintained” to a set of regulated standards.
Posting on Facebook, Smith explained: “I’ve tabled a series of amendments to the Criminal Justice Bill which if accepted and successful, would lead to those riding pedal bicycles, e-bikes, electric scooters, unicycles and ‘personal transporters’ facing new tougher penalties if they injure or kill pedestrians.
“Under current legislation, a cyclist who kills while riding recklessly or dangerously can be jailed for a maximum of only two years under an 1861 law for ‘wanton or furious driving’.”
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Amendments to the Criminal Justice Act would impose harsher punishments on cyclists
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He added that ministers have “repeatedly” promised to update laws but have repeatedly “failed” to do so.
