Pavement Riding

Despite the dangers that you may perceive on the road, you are not allowed to cycle on the pavement.  It is a criminal offence, contrary to Section 72 of the Highways Act 1835, punishable by a fine from £30 (fixed penalty) up to £500.  It may also leave you open to prosecution for careless riding, dangerous riding or causing death by dangerous riding.

Where there is a designated cycleway it is permissible to cycle on this despite the fact that it may look like part of the pavement.  However, it is important to make sure you remain in your lane.

Cyclists have recently received bad press for accidents involving pedestrians as a result of a couple of extreme cases where cyclists killed pedestrians.  The simple fact is, however, that if a cyclist has an accident with a pedestrian while riding on the pavement the cyclist is likely to be facing the majority of blame.

The issues are likely to be complicated, particularly as by their nature cycle accidents usually involve a cyclist on their own (i.e. they have nobody travelling with them to support what they say happened).  The issues are unlikely to be simple and you need an expert in your corner.  Call us on 01296 662770.