New initiative will help change cyclists’ behaviour and help keep our roads, and everyone on them, safer
The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Donohoe TD, has today (Monday) said the issuing of 244 Fixed Charge Notices (FCN) to cyclists in the first two months of the introduction of the new Regulations is helping to promote better cycling behaviour and keeping our cyclists and other road users safer on the roads (see breakdown of offences below).
“Last July I introduced Fixed Charge Notices (FCNs), or fines, for cyclists who commit certain road traffic offences. This came into effect on 31st July. An Garda Síochána has indicated that between 31st July and the end of September a total of 244 fines have been issued to cyclists who have broken the law and committed one of the seven road traffic offences identified under the Regulations.
“Unsurprisingly, most fines have been issued for the offence of breaking a red light (144), with failure to have appropriate lighting on a bike accounting for the next highest number of fines at 44.
“This measure was introduced with a view to promoting safe cycling practices and changing poor cycling behaviour and preventing needless collisions and injury on our roads. Last year, 13 cyclists were killed in Ireland. I want to see that number reduced and a greater emphasis put on cycling road safety. I introduced this measure with a view to highlighting the dangers that exist for cyclists and encouraging them to take their safety more seriously.
“The majority of cyclists obey the rules of the road when out on their bikes, however, there are some who put themselves and others at risk by disregarding the law. I would like to commend An Garda Síochána for the work they are doing in this area and for reinforcing the message that cyclists, as vulnerable road users, have a responsibility to themselves and others when out on the roads.
“By allowing for fines for cyclists to be issued in place of direct summonses to Court, Court time is also freed up and a more immediate enforcement tool provided to An Garda Síochána.”
Total number of offences – 244
Cyclist proceeding past traffic lights/ cycle traffic lights when the red lamp is illuminated -144
No front lamp or rear lamp lit during lighting-up hours on a pedal cycle – 44 offences
Cyclist driving a pedal cycle without reasonable consideration – 37 offences
Cyclist proceeding into a pedestrianised street or area -19 offences