Cars are the reason many drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians suffer serious injuries and fatalities, but have you ever thought about the situation when a bike riders are involved? Well, Liverpool has, and that is why the city is changing the cyclist landscape to ensure that serious accidents do not occur. A new bill is due to take effect soon, and if its success rate is positive, other cities could create their own versions to prevent accidents and maintain the flow of traffic. First, you’ll need to make sure it will follow the guidelines, otherwise it’s a risk to pedestrians.
Liverpool is starting a trend: Other cities could follow the example
Although only 2% of the population in Liverpool rides bicycles, many also opt to commute on foot (30%), and these two groups have interesting relationships. While most bicycles are on the streets, sometimes walkers and bike riders must share a small street or a lane within a park, and it is at these intersections where most accidents can occur.
This is why the city is trying to implement a new measure to prevent any injuries. Reckless driving also applies to bicycles, and although bike riders do not need to undergo lessons or a driving test, some may still think they can do as they please as long as they avoid traffic, travel from point A to B quickly, and save on petrol.
Bicycles can cause serious accidents: Bike riders will see consequences now
Bicycles can cause serious accidents, and now bike riders will face the consequences that cyclists in the UK may soon face under new rules making their way through Parliament – similar to this petition for the pension rise in the country. The plan is part of the Crime and Policing Bill, which aims to bring cycling laws in line with those already applied to drivers.
The official statement from the UK Government states that the goal is not to punish new behaviours, but to ensure that when cyclists cause serious harm — something that already constitutes a crime – the penalties match those faced by bike riders. If the bill passes, new offences will be added to the Road Traffic Act, including:
- Causing death by dangerous cycling – with the most severe cases carrying the possibility of a life sentence.
- Causing serious injury by dangerous cycling – up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.
- Death by careless or inconsiderate cycling – up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.
- Serious injury by careless or inconsiderate cycling – up to two years in prison, a fine, or both.
Cyclists will have to exercise care if they do not wish to pay fines
Officials stress that the police already have powers to act against reckless bike riders. For instance, riding dangerously can lead to fines of up to £2,500, while careless cycling can result in penalties of up to £1,000. There is also the 1861 Offences Against the Person Act, which allows prosecution for “wanton and furious driving” if a cyclist injures someone – with a maximum prison term of two years. Additionally, cycling while unfit due to drink or drugs carries a fine of up to £1,000.
Government also wants people on bikes: Make it safer is the appeal
The new bill is designed to standardise offences across England, Scotland, and Wales. It also comes alongside a big push from the Department for Transport, which has pledged nearly £300 million for active travel projects over 2024 and 2025. The idea is to make walking and cycling safer and more appealing, while also improving air quality and public health. For now, the bill is still making its way through Parliament, so the details could change before it becomes law, like in this new measure for pensioners in the UK.
