Scottish cyclists call for drivers to be accountable for accidents

Date: 16/4/2013

A campaign for the introduction of legislation that would make motorists liable for all accidents involving cyclists has been launched in Scotland.

The group leading the initiative - Cycle Law Scotland - is aiming to have a member's bill put before the Scottish Parliament that would make drivers responsible for any incidents by default - unless it can be clearly proven that the cyclist was to blame.

Campaigners believe that such measures would spark a change in the way motorists behave on the road, reducing the number of accidents and providing cyclists with greater protection.

Richard Lyle, MSP for Central Scotland, explained that the law would make Scotland a "cycle-friendly nation" and that the Government should not be afraid to take the lead in reforming cycle laws.

"For too long, strict liability for road users has been dismissed as too difficult or too contentious a law, but in a modern society that sees cycling as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle and sustainable economy, it is important to put this debate back on the agenda," he added.

Posted by Sarah Bailey

Transport Research News and Vehicle Safety News