New Laws to Tackle Intimidatory Driving & Cyclist Safety

Stuart Kightley

The government is considering a new set of road safety laws aimed at protecting cyclists and other vulnerable road users. Among the proposed changes is a new offence called “intimidatory driving”, which targets motorists who dangerously pass too close to cyclists. Additional proposals would see fines for “car dooring” and for drivers who stop in cycle boxes at traffic lights.

What is the proposed new offence of intimidatory driving?

“Intimidatory driving” refers to behaviour where drivers pass cyclists without leaving a safe gap, an experience many cyclists face regularly. Although the Highway Code advises motorists to give cyclists “plenty of room”, there’s currently no legally defined minimum distance. The new offence would formalise this, allowing police and courts to penalise drivers who fail to give cyclists enough space. Many countries already enforce these rules, typically at least one metre on local roads and 1.5 metres on faster routes. The UK’s adoption of similar measures would be a significant shift in road safety.

Car dooring could become a punishable offence

Another proposed change would see fines issued to drivers or passengers who open a vehicle door into the path of a cyclist, commonly referred to as “car dooring”. This type of incident is a major contributor to cycling injuries and often occurs because people fail to check for approaching cyclists before opening the door of their vehicles. If implemented, the new regulations would give police the authority to issue penalty points and fines for these offences, encouraging better awareness and behaviour from drivers.

Fines for drivers stopping in cycle stop boxes

Cycle stop boxes, also known as bike boxes or advanced stop lines, are designated areas at traffic lights reserved for cyclists. Despite existing rules, many drivers continue to encroach into these spaces, making them unsafe for cyclists. Under the proposed regulations, drivers who stop in bike boxes could be fined or penalised with points on their licence. This move aims to reinforce cyclists’ priority at junctions.

DfT’s call for evidence on road safety

The Department for Transport (DfT) has launched a “call for evidence” to explore ways to make UK roads safer for cyclists. This consultation will not only look at new offences for drivers but also examine penalties for cyclists who behave dangerously, ensuring that all road users are held to high safety standards.

Transport Minister Jesse Norman emphasised the government’s ambition to “make cycling the natural choice of transport for people of all ages and backgrounds.”

Police enforcement and challenges

Currently, police have limited powers when it comes to penalising close passes or dooring incidents. In most cases, officers can only stop drivers to offer verbal warnings. The West Midlands Police force has led the way in cracking down on close passes, but even their efforts rely on court decisions about what constitutes a “safe distance”.

A defined offence of intimidatory driving would empower law enforcement with clearer legal standards and make it easier to prosecute unsafe drivers.

Close passes: A daily threat for cyclists

A 2017 study based on 1,600 daily cycling diaries found that near misses are alarmingly common, with one in four rides involving an incident that cyclists described as “very scary.” These findings have become a reference point for cycling safety campaigns across the UK.

High-profile cyclists like Jeremy Vine have used helmet cameras and social media to highlight the frequency of dangerous close passes and the risks posed by inattentive or aggressive driving.

Final Thoughts

Many of these incidents, whether car dooring, cycle box blocking, or unsafe overtaking, are preventable. Formalising these behaviours into specific driving offences could help create safer roads for everyone. With public input, the DfT’s consultation may shape a future where motorists and cyclists can share the road more safely. For cyclists equipped with helmet cameras and other evidence-gathering tools, this could also mean stronger legal backing when pursuing justice for dangerous incidents.

Have you been in a cycling accident caused by dangerous driving?

If you’ve been injured due to a close pass, car dooring, or other type of road incident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our expert personal injury solicitors are here to help you understand your rights and guide you through the claims process.

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