should cyclists be treated as road-users, or pedestrians?

Dont_be_Furious

Bicycles in UK law were “carriages”, as a consequence of the Taylor v Goodwin judgment in 1879 I believe.

So, bicycles were considered carriages when ridden, and the owner is a “foot-passenger” when pushing them (and not using the bicycle as a scooter).

I do think how cyclists are viewed varies too wildly by road users now. I know the light phases at some major junctions. And when the lights go red, I may dismount from my bike and walk across the carriageway if safe to do so (and note, I do not “scoot”). Then I remount, look over my shoulder then ride onwards when safe to do so.

Interesting links: (remove the “space” to use)
www. bikehub.co.uk/featured-articles/cycling-and-the-law/
www. luyulei.net/cases/04_02-Corkery-v-Carpenter.html .
www. gov.uk/rules-for-cyclists-59-to-82


I’ve update my comments, as I do think how other motorists believe what cyclists should/should not/ “do” or what “position” on the road they should/ should not be/ is getting to be a significant problem on the roads. Motorists and cyclists seem to belong to distinct “factions” in these beliefs. These factions are now well established part of the road community with truly ingrained beliefs (which are often plain wrong). And it’s difficult to see how to improve things.

A typical belief by one faction of motorists, is that cyclists “MUST” cycle in the joint pedestrian /cycle lane (and so not be on the main road), or MUST cycle in the gutter in traffic (and must not filter). I can inform they should to check the highway code but they “don’t” want to know. They want “their” belief to true… e.g 61. Cycle Routes and Other Facilities. Use cycle routes, advanced stop lines, cycle boxes and toucan crossings unless at the time it is unsafe to do so. Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.

DBF