Cyclists Can Also Put Others at Risk on the Road
While many people would argue that cyclists are often at risk from cars, trucks and buses on the road, it is equally as important to remember that cyclists also can put people at risk when on the road. In March 2009 in Oxford, a cyclist knocked down a child in Oxford. The child suffered from bruises and scrapes and the cyclist, Daniel Rosier was charged with a careless cycling offence and received a 12 month conditional discharge and ordered to pay over A�120 in costs and compensation.
Police commented that while cyclists are vulnerable, they are also capable of causing harm to others. Meanwhile Rosier has also commented that this charge was ‘unfair’ and if he had not stopped to help the child, he would not have been charged. While it is unusual for a case such as this to reach the court, it is also the first known in Oxford. The chairman of the cycling campaign, Cyclox welcomed the prosecution, as he felt that any cyclists who runs over a pedestrian on a pedestrian crossing is ‘an idiot’ and deserves ‘no sympathy whatsoever’.
Other cycling laws may be of interest to other cyclists. Here are the top 6 that may surprise some regular cyclists.
1. You can be charged for cycling carelessly. Reckless cycling is an offence, under the RTA 1988, section 28
2. Cyclists are also bound by the rules of the road. They are obliged to comply with traffic signs in the same way as other road users. This includes stopping at traffic lights, signalling etc.
3. Don’t carry more than your load. The carriage of more than one person on a road on a bicycle not propelled by mechanical power is an offence committed by each person being carried, under the RTA 1988, section 24. However if your bike is legitimately constructed or adapted for the carriage of more than one person like a tandem bicycle or one with an attached child seat, the rule is waived.
4. Don’t drink and ride. Riding a pedal cycle while unfit to ride because of alcohol or drugs is an offence contrary to section 30 of the RTA 1988, where the rider is incapable of controlling the cycle
5. Stick to the road! Cycling on the pavement is an offence, under the Section 72 of the Highways Act 1835 as amended by Section 85 (1) of the Local Government Act 1888
6. Maintain visibility. Front and rear cycle lamps are now permitted to flash, under the Road Vehicle Lighting (Amendment) Regulations 2005
Cyclists should take these rules into account on the road, for the safety of all those involved.