Cyclists and road traffic law

On 12 March 2009, a cyclist who knocked down a child in Oxford was convicted of careless cycling under the Road Traffic Act 1988, section 29. The cyclist was travelling at about 15mph when he struck and knocked over a young pedestrian at traffic lights. It is unusual for such a case to reach court. However the case demonstrates that, whilst cyclists are often vulnerable, they are also capable of causing harm to others.

If this surprises you, you will be interested to know that:

1. 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
2. Reckless cycling is an offence, under the RTA 1988, section 28
3. 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. (There is an exception if the bike is legitimately constructed or adapted for the carriage of more than one person (i.e. tandem or attached child seat)
4. 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. Front and rear cycle lamps are now permitted to flash, under the Road Vehicle Lighting (Amendment) Regulations 2005
6. Cyclists are obliged to comply with traffic signs in the same way as other road users