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Will cyclists need insurance?

Emma Lunn
Written By:
Emma Lunn
Posted:
Updated:
27/11/2023

A shake up of road rules could see cyclists facing speed limits, needing number plates, and being required to have insurance.

The government is considering introducing similar laws to which drivers have to stick to on the roads.

The new rules could include speed limits, especially in 20mph zones. This would mean that cyclists would need number plates or another form of identification for enforcement purposes. Cyclists who break the rules could face fines and points on their license.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps has called for a government review of how cyclists who flout the law can be tracked down by police.

As part of the study, ministers will also consider mandatory insurance for cyclists, so that anyone injured by a reckless cyclist could secure compensation.

There are also proposals for a new offence of death by dangerous cycling. At the moment, cyclists can only be jailed for a maximum of two years if their actions result in someone’s death, but motorists can be jailed for life.

Shapps told the Daily Mail: “Somewhere where cyclists are actually not breaking the law is when they speed, and that cannot be right, so I absolutely propose extending speed limit restrictions to cyclists. I don’t want to stop people from getting on their bike, it’s a fantastic way to travel, and we’ve seen a big explosion of cycling during Covid and since. But I see no reason why cyclists should break the road laws and be able to get away with it.”

According to Cycling UK, cash strapped consumers are turning to cycling to save money. Compared to last year, cycling levels in England rose by 47% on weekdays and 27% on weekends in the five months to the end of July

The rise has been simultaneous with the hike in fuel prices, strongly suggesting people want to cycle more for many reasons, including to save money.


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