WITH the conviction of Charlie Alliston for causing the death of Kim Briggs by furious riding of an illegal pedal cycle, it’s likely that a new law introducing the offence of causing death by dangerous cycling will be the inevitable consequence of this case.

This prosecution has highlighted a long standing anomaly in the law with regard to what has become an all too frequent trend by some irresponsible and dangerous cyclists whom regularly ride at pace not only on roads but through pedestrian areas, pavements and no cycling zones; putting the public at risk of injury or worse without; it would seem; appropriate sanction.

It does not seem adequate just to introduce a stand alone offence of causing death when there are occasions where serious injury can occur from furious riding so there must be a more comprehensive set of rules and punishments enshrined in the legislation to sensibly protect pedestrians with the capacity to claim reparation if an offence is proven.

It should also resurrect the laws regarding the condition of pedal cycles that for some reason have fallen from scrutiny.

More controversially, it may also become necessary for riders to be insured.

I fully appreciate that most cycling enthusiasts are responsible road users however, they must be answerable to the law when they are not. 

Malcolm M Richards
Aberthaw Road
Newport