DANGEROUS CYCLISTS

DANGEROUS CYCLISTS

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(Penalties): **

35.

Er Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Transport (a) what action has been taken against cyclists who pose a danger to pedestrians; (b) what are the penalties imposed on these cyclists; and (c) whether his Ministry will consider licensing all motorised bicycles with motors below 200 watts.

Mr Raymond Lim Siang Keat: The Traffic Police has been taking enforcement action against cyclists who pose a danger to pedestrians. Summonses have been issued to those who commit offences under the Road Traffic Act, or breach any rule under the Road Traffic (Bicycles) Rules. Action has been taken against errant cyclists violating cycling rules, most of whom were taken to task for failing to ride in an orderly manner, and riding on the footways of roads.

The penalties imposed depend on the circumstances of each case. For instance, under Section 279 of the Penal Code, a cyclist who rides in a rash or negligent manner that could cause hurt to, or endanger the life of, any other person, may be imprisoned for up to one year, fined up to $5,000, or both. However, these situations are rare. In circumstances where cycling rules are breached, a composition fine of $20 would be meted out against the errant cyclist.

Currently, LTA exempts low-powered models of motorised bicycles from registration as they have similar construction and performance characteristics as conventional pedal bicycles. They are restricted to 200 watts or less, are powered by an electric source, and their electric motor must cut off when the bicycle reaches a speed of 25km/h or when the rider stops pedalling. This is comparable to the average speed of a moderately fit adult pedalling a conventional bicycle on level ground. Hence, like conventional bicycles, there is no need for them to be registered for use on public roads.

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