PI expert backs introduction of new laws to protect cyclists

A personal injury expert has backed suggestions for new laws to protect cyclists following reports that the Department for Transport is reviewing proposals for new road rules to introduce a minimum distance for cars when overtaking cyclists.

Drivers who fail to abide by minimum spacing rules could face a £100 fine and three penalty points under an offence that would be classed as careless driving.

Caroline Kelly, a partner and accredited specialist in personal injury law at Thorntons Solicitors in Dundee, said: “With the desire to introduce more people to cycling, it is natural that the Department for Transport are looking at ways to make cycling safer and to tempt people onto their bikes. The Highway Code gives guidance that drivers should give cyclists as much room when they overtake as they would a car or other vehicle, but that rule is vague.”

Ms Kelly (pictured) added: “Cyclists are vulnerable road users as they don’t have anything separating them from the road or from cars and are therefore at risk of sustaining more serious injuries than the occupants of a car if they were to be involved in a collision.

“As such I think it is sensible for there to be more specific rules centred around protecting cyclists and other vulnerable road users.”

She added: “Should the proposals be introduced, drivers will need to be aware of the minimum distance – and how that minimum distance looks from the driver seat of their car as they overtake a cyclist travelling on the passenger side of their car.

“I would anticipate that a common sense approach would be taken in prosecuting such offences with the road environment and speed being taken into account. Ultimately, drivers would need to be aware of the minimum distance and the potential penalties for failing to comply with that.”