Dear Constituent,

Thank you for contacting me about road safety.

Every road user has a responsibility to behave safely and with consideration for others as set out in the Highway Code. A cycle safety review is examining ways in which responsible cycling can be better encouraged, alongside other measures to ensure motorists are reliable road users.

The Highway Code clearly sets out rules for cyclists on equipment, clothing and the use of lanes and crossings. There are currently a range of offences available to deal with cyclists who cause harm to pedestrians or other road users. Sections 28-30 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 include dangerous or careless cycling and cycling while under the influence of drink or drugs, which carries a maximum penalty of £2,500. At the most serious end of the scale, manslaughter or wanton and furious driving can be charged.

While the UK has some of the safest roads in the world, the Department for Transport (DfT) is always looking at ways to make them safer and that is why the Transport Minister Jesse Norman announced a consultation on the recommendations produced by the cycle safety review. This includes a proposal to introduce new offences of causing death or serious injury while cycling and other changes to some existing cycling offences, further work on guidance on cycling and walking infrastructure, and improvements to the Highway Code. This 12-week consultation will run until the 5 November 2018 which you can respond to online or by email or post.

Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.

EDWARD LEIGH MP