New data indicates that Britons are turning to bicycles as the cost of living crisis bites, with advocates suggesting that cycling is beneficial for our health, wealth, and the environment.
A “death by unsafe cycling” statute should be enacted in the United Kingdom, according to the transport secretary.
Grant Shapps vows to eliminate a legal loophole that allows cyclists who kill pedestrians to serve only two years in prison.
Under his proposal, bicycles that murder other road users would be penalized similarly to drivers.
Mr. Shapps said in Mail+ that the law is necessary “to convey upon bikers the serious damage they can wreak when speed is paired with carelessness.”
He continued, “A small proportion of cyclists appear to assume they are immune to red lights.”
“We must severely punish this disrespect for road safety. The victims’ families have waited too long for this simple action.”
Mr. Shapps has proposed that the new law be included in the Transport Bill, which is scheduled to be introduced in the fall.
It comes four years after the government held a survey on new bicycle offenses for causing death or serious injury.
England’s cycling rates are “surge”
In other news, recent statistics indicate that the number of cyclists in England is increasing as cash-strapped consumers reduce their car usage.
During the five months leading up to the end of July, there was a 47 percent increase in weekday riding compared to the same period the previous year and a 27 percent increase on weekends.
Last month, as fuel prices peaked, cycling rates surpassed those of the summer of 2020, when quieter roads during the coronavirus epidemic encouraged more Britons to cycle.
Cycling UK urges local governments and employers to do more to encourage people to drive less and pedal more, particularly for short daily commutes.
Road safety is still an issue.
According to Duncan Dollimore, head of campaigns for the organization, many Britons do not believe the roads are safe enough for cycling.
Given that 71 percent of journeys in the United Kingdom are less than five miles, an increase in cycling can benefit the environment, along with health, wealth, and well-being.
Recent research from GoCompare indicates that the average Brit would save £106.60 per month by cycling, while simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint by 5kg per day.
Scarlet Wilderink, an actress, told that switching to cycling has increased her bank account, as she saves up to £15 per day by not taking the train.
However, some employers who have attempted to persuade their employees to bike to work say that safety remains a major concern.
Tom Bowtell, the chief executive officer of the British Coatings Federation, remarked, “I installed all the infrastructure – bike racks, showers, and everything else – but no one was using it. I believe this is due to the fear of feeling incompetent.”
He told that educating the public about safe cycling routes and maximizing the use of separated bike lanes is vital.
