Cyclists across London have come together to try and change rules for themselves when using roads in and around the capital.

The proposed changes would mean that motorists would be at risk of a £1,000 fine for not following specific Highway Code rules to do with distance between cars and bike riders.

Cyclists have asked to change the Highway Code so that the distance between cars and cyclists is made law and motorists not giving cyclists a ‘fair distance’ can be charged up to £1,000 in fines.

Ryan Kemp, campaigner for the Cyclist Action Group, said: “We are currently campaigning to change the law and make it safer for cyclists across London and the country.

“The proposed £1,000 fine for motorists who don’t keep their distance will encourage safer practice for all cyclists across the capital and I am sure we will see a decrease in the amount of car on cyclist accidents.”

Currently there is no specific distance within the Highway Code which explains how much space cars should give cyclists and this is what they want to change.

Rule 139 of the Highway Code states: “Give cyclists at least as much room as you would a car when overtaking”.

Rule 188 of the Highway Code states “When passing a cyclist give them plenty of room”.

Current advice for passing cyclists says: “If they look over their shoulder while you are following them it could mean that they may soon attempt to turn right.

“A guideline minimum distance of 1.5 metres at speeds under 30 mph; A guideline minimum distance of 2.0 metres at speeds over 30 mph; All drivers to take extra care and consider giving more space when overtaking cyclists in bad weather.”

Ryan Kemp explained that his group wants to make 1.5 metres the designated space that cyclists have to be given by cars. They have not yet revealed how they want this to be policed and enforced but say: “We are working on it.”

https://www.mylondon.news/news/motoring/highway-code-rules-cyclists-want-22566417