If only the police and locl authorities put as much time.enrgy.and money into crime enforcement we would not have any, but the motorist is an easy target and a good cash cow to boot it is time for us to have a say and vote on our chiefs of police

syd, UK,

I agree wholeheartedly with Terry Dell. I've come very close to being mown down by a pavement cyclist twice outside my gate, only a stone's throw from a cycle lane. The council is spending a fortune on installing these lanes, which would be a great idea if only cyclists used them. They prefer to swing between road and pavement as it suits them, with no heed to anyone's safety, not even, apparently, their own. They are a menace but all we hear from them is whining about how dangerous the roads are. Perhaps if they gave signals, respected traffic lights and road signs and generally behaved in a civilised manner, we'd have more sympathy with them. They certainly don't give a damn about hapless pedestrians, who are expected to keep out of their way, even when they whizz silently up behind them. But why should they?: they are anonymous and accountable to no-one.

anne, bournemouth,

"But the AA said that many cycle lanes were poorly used and ignored by cyclists themselves."
What do they mean -'ignored'? Its not mandatory to use a cycle lane and it certainly isn't always appropriate, especially when it means passing on the inside of slow or stationary motor vehicles.

George Buck, Leeds, West Yorkshire

Frankly most cycle lanes are poorly designed, badly sighted appearing and disappearing like night and day, of inadequate width and have only been painted on many roads to achieve government targets. As a motorist and a cyclist, I find them dangerous, motorists not unnaturally believe they have a right of way outside the lanes yet there may be obstructions, drains, bad surfaces etc: causing them to move out. Whar about parking and deliveries if motorists cannot stray into cycle lanes? We are not Holland or Belguim where properly segregated and designed cycle paths exist. This smells of Livingston seeking more money!

James, Sevenoks,

this is a very lazy and cynical solution, if a solution at all, to a problem which we face everyday: how do we safely and effecitvely share the limited road space available to us. i've been cycling in london for years on a daily basis covering a minimum of 80 - 100 miles a week. And I can assure you a painted, badly maintained piece of road full of pitholes, buses, women that can not handle their 4x4s even when they are not on their mobiles, and crap in the gutter is NOT a 'safe lane' for any cyclist - and let's not forget that for the most part they exist for half a mile then without warning simply dissappear - did someone run out of paint?

I feel safe amongst the traffic as the traffic moves at speed which is often more or less regulated for long periods by the congestion itslef. Also, in my expeerience, drivers communicate with each other, are aware of those around them (be they other drivers, motorcyclists or cylcists), and are attentive. Experienced and responsible cyclists emplo

jaco, London, UK

“Keeping drivers out of cycle lanes will encourage more people to cycle because there will be a greater perception that it is safe to do so.”

From my suburban point of view, the fact is that cycle lanes have been around for many years but are very rare used by cyclists because there are still so few cyclists around to use them. If anything, the quite worthy campaign to get people to use bicycles has, in general, failed; London has not become Amsterdam and never will.

I heartily agree with James Harding: the practice of many cyclists to go through red traffic lights is very dangerous to themselves and other road users and should be dealt with long before motorists are sanctioned for going into cycle lanes.

Ray, Edgware,

I was astounded the other day when: a cyclist, who was taking a short cut through a pedestrian mall, complained about the people not getting out of his way; a cyclist mounted a pavement to avoid the red light against him; a cyclist road his bicycle all the way on to the train platform and proceed to barge his way past passengers trying to disembark; a cyclist riding the wrong way up a one way street and a cyclist banging on the boot of a car to get him to move out of the way!

If only I could drive my car, for which I pay a road tax (unlike cyclists) in a specially designated lane, because it is bound to be empty!

Paul, Bristol, UK

At different times I am a cyclist, pedestrian and motorcyclist in London. I have sympathy with the various points of view.

However, I get hugely frustrated with pedestrians who complain that cyclist passing through red lights. I guarantee that they have at one stage walked across a pedestrian crossing whilst the "red man" is showing. I've had two cycle accidents because of this.

Whilst two wrongs don't make a right, they certainly make a hypocrite.

Hans, London,

I'm really shocked. I've been following this debate and contributed earler. I'm an advanced driver and have been a sales rep for 20 years covering at least 50,000 miles a year mostly in Europe but also around the world. So I am a motorist. I am also a keen cyclist. I really don't understand the anger that some motorists have to vulnerable road users like cyclists. If occasionally a cyclist has held me up it's never for more than a minute or so and guess what? It has usually meant that I have rejoined the traffic queue I was in up until that point. So, in the end they didn't even hold me up. Some of these drivers that hate cyclists are just inexperienced and need some kind of therapy. Just chill.. Follow the advice in Germany. " Reisen nict rasen" Travelling not racing.

Samuel Gee, Farnham, UK

Can someone sort out cyclists in London? I've nearly been hit several times by cyclists running red lights at a pedestrian crossings. Fixed penalties are needed for bad cyclists, as is helmet enforcement.

James Harding, London,

..and will cyclists be fined for using car lanes where there is a cycle lane? I doubt it. Unfortunately this practice is common in my area - up to one third of cyclists fail to use perfectly good cycle lanes to the danger of both car driver and cyclist..

Chris, Ashford, Middlesex

How many cycles do you see using their designated lane??? A few! ITS A WASTE OF ROAD SPACE!!! So who actually cares if a car drives into it? It isn't going to run-over anyone because no one uses it!

Swishi, London,

How about this for an alternative:

Instead of a blanket £120 tax for driving into an empty cycle lane, why not have a £500 fine + 4 penalty points if you drive into a cycle lane and endanger a cyclist's life, with NO option to reduce the penalty? The burden of proof, of course, must be on the state (innocent until proven guilty), rather than the way this new scheme will work (guilty until proven innocent on appeal).

There are 100s of miles of cycle lanes around the country, most of which are empty most of the time. If you "borrow" one to pass a motorist who's turning off the main road, and there's no cyclist using the lane, was any harm done?

Ade, Wallasey, UK

As a cyclist, motor cyclist and occasional car driver I would make these points.
1) I have never seen motorists, on 2 wheels or 4, ignore red lights the way cyclists do, and it's partisan nonsense to suggest they do. I sometimes sneak through red lights on my bicycle if I can see that there's no traffic and no pedestrians. It's safer than setting off with the other traffic when the lights go green. What embarrasses me as a cyclist is militants shooting through pedestrian traffic lights on red and swearing at anyone who dares to remonstrate.
2) I don't mind cycle lanes being set aside for cyclists, and I don't mind there being penalties for going in them. It's the sheer brutality of the enforcement that causes offence. The way the government and its agencies treat relations with the public is a disgrace.

Lord Justice Dredd, London,

One of the problems we have is that the Government think that they have introduced cycle lanes whereas in fact all they have done is paint white lines along side main roads. These are not cycle lanes!
Cycle lanes should be kept separate from the rest of traffic otherwise people are led into a false sense of security no matter how careful drivers are.
This is just a cheap skate way for the Government to make people think they are doing something about a problem.
The reaction to fine drivers is, Iam afraid, just another example of a Government bereft of ideas. I am sure that if they had been around in 1912, the Government's reaction to the sinking of the Titanic would be to fine all producers if ice cubes!

J Lowry, Kenilworth, UK

There is no road tax in the UK. There's emissions tax. You pay your tax based on emissions. Low emission vehicles (e.g. bikes) are obviously exempt. Besides, all private cars should be banned from city centres.

John, Woking, Surrey

When I lived in Bavaria, many of the pavements were wide and had cyclist pics to denote use by them. This and the many cycle paths meant no problems. It's probably the same in other enlightened European countries. It's only this backward island that can't figure anything out. From Teenage pregnancies to transport, we are years behind them.

Peter Day, Doncaster, UK

Pointless. A bicicle is MUCH faster than a car in majority of cases, paricularly in London. I used to spend up to 2.5 hours locked in the car, tryig to squeeze through London. Now I can do 12 mile trip in 45 miutes, all seazons all year long (could be faster if I bothered). The benefits of cycling outweight the risks by 20:1. And it' cheap. And you will feel good. I still drive but very rarely for commuting. Commuting anything up to 16 miles by car is a waste of space!!!

Sylvia, London,

If cars really must stay out of cycle lanes in the future, this gives a green light to us, the direct action anti-cycling brigade, to strew those lanes with caltrops (small puncturing devices), without any risk of an own goal!

John Thomas Goodey, Cuxton-upon-Medway, UK

I personally think cyclists should be licensed and have insurance before they go on public roads. Maybe they should be taxed as well, after all their exertion requires them to eat more and thus expel more Carbon Dioxide, allegedly a Global Warming gas (also fundamental for life on Earth, but that’s for another day). The persecution of the motorist seems to me to be just an old fashioned socialist envy led policy, that consistently fails to realise that due to the many failed and costly public transport initiatives (starting with Beeching); the car for many people is a necessity, not a luxury.

Andy Fleming, Liverpool, UK

Once again the government bringing in new money making ideas that the vast majority object to. Are we not now living in a dictatorship with a leader no one has ever voted for and laws no one wants!

Justin, London,

John Tremayne, more and more cyclists are been trained. I did my cycling proficiency in junior school.

Why should cyclists pay road tax? The damage they do to the roads is negligible compared with what car tyres do. And they cause no damage to the environment, whereas cars do.

We should be encouraging more people to get cycling. It is a great habit to get into, as it gets you fit and causes no harm environmentally. Why don't you try it?

Chris, Epsom,

John Tremayne of Oxford claims "Cyclists pay no road tax, nor other financial contribution for the roads". Er, what about all the income tax, council tax and VAT that I pay to the government and to my local council? That entitles me to travel on roads and cycle paths that have been built at public expense. I would be happy to pay an additional road fund licence as well, if Mr Tremayne of anyone else can prove that my bicycle causes the same amount of pollution and takes up the same amount of space as a car. In return for my taxes I make relatively few demands on the state, but I do expect to be able to cycle from A to B by a convenient route in reasonable safety.
Returning to the original article, I think the CCTV cameras would be put to better use catching (1) motorists who fail to give cyclists enough room when overtaking, and (2) any road user who fails to give way at a junction or traffic light (not just cyclists, despite what has been written on this thread).

Simon Hill, Exmouth, UK

Regarding the Interpreters working for the British army. Thank you for bringing it to our attention. What should we do now to make sure this doesn't happen and shame the government into doing the right thing?

Kathy Winkle, Cheshire,

Stephanie James says "I don't see why they (cyclists) should get special treatment". Stephanie, we're not asking for special treatment, just equal treatment. As a cyclist, I want to be able to travel from A to B without having my safety put at risk by other road users.

Simon Hill, Exmouth, UK

Cyclists have it too easy. As a pedestrian in London you take your life in your hands every time you step off a pavement; even if the light is green for pedestrians. So many cyclists completely ignore any type of traffic management such as lights and ride through them as if they were not there. By the time you add to that their tendency to take the easiest short cut across the pavement and you soon find who causes the most danger and problems on the city's street.
Bottom line is that if car drivers should be fined for being in cycle lanes then why are there no cameras to fine cyclists for being on the road - no number plate? Well that sounds like another tax that could be brought in - cycle road tax!

Andrew Cowan, London,

I had a meeting to discuss a new mixed-use office and residential scheme with planning officers in Nottingham City Council a while back. They were insistent that we provide LESS parking on site than the industry standard (1 space per unit). I was 15 minutes late after negotiating a one way system, ambiguous cycle tracks and a pedestrianised area that would have left Columbus lost without trace. On arriving at the council steps, hot and sweaty after a 15 minute jog from the nearest car park, in suit and tie, I encountered the Mayor's car parked on the pedestrianised area awaiting its master. On the way to the meeting, it occurred to me that the very people that impose these restrictions on the rest of us are the very people who should be regulated by them. I made this point to the planner. Needless to say, the meeting didn't go well.... She had her own free space under the building too. Of course, SHE needs it for work.... unlike the rest of us of course.....

Mark, Birmingham, UK

And what about us scooter riders? We accelerate faster away from traffic lights and therefore naturally positio outselves in the "cycle" box. That way we are clearly visible, aren't stuck between cars and don't impede the cars.

Cyclists on the other hand, accelerate very slowly from traffic lights, causing more pollution as the cars behind dwardle and then far from all getting into the cycle lane, feel and urge to drive in the middle of the road.

Cyclists who drive on the roads, should have to pass compulsory tests, wear proper protective clothing (not tour de france fancy gear) and have proper insurance. Until they do I don't see why they should get special treatment. espcially as the majority only ride in the Summer months anyway. Oh and if us Scooter riders are going to be charged to park then so should Cyclists. After all those special cycle bars cost as much money as the anchor bars in scooter bays.

Stephanie James, London, England

Cyclists pay no road tax, nor other financial contribution for the roads. They are unlicensed, untrained and uninsured and they face no sanction whatsoever if they flout the traffic laws. It beggars belief that they are given space on the roads at all.

From a pure health and safety perspective the whole concept of cyclists and cycle lanes on road carriageways is a nonsense. Whoever dreamed of allowing the most vulnerable road-users to creep up the inside of traffic and then place themselves in front of the hazardous traffic, wants their head examining. Cycling on busy roads is dangerous full-stop.

But can this most oppressive of governments resist the opportunity to beat the over taxed motorist with yet another stick? Not on your nelly!

John Tremayne, Oxford, UK

Utterly ridiculous. I'm a cyclist in London and the cycle lanes that exist are completely useless anyway. The govenment will only increase the amount of illegal drivers if it continues to make up money making schemes at the expense of the general public.

Scott McKinlay, London,

Well I'm all for yet another stealth tax on motorists. It's not like we already:
- pay a road fund license,
- pay each time we have the audacity to use the roads of london and then
- pay again in the form of excessive taxation on petrol.

As soon as the cycling fraternity begin paying for the valuable road space that they demand and are held accountable against a set of laws then they have a right to demand allocated space on the roads.

I can't wait for the day that we have a strip of grass running alongside each road solely for use by people with mountain bikes. Naturally road bikes would be fined for straying onto this strip of grass as would picnicking families.

Andy, London,

A new measure is being proposed to fine rude Tesco shoppers eighty pounds for bumping into "elderly" shoppers, a measure which, it is hoped, while reduce incivility of bullying consumers knocking senior citizens aside while grabbing at better best before products in the aisles.

This will accompany another progressive measure to install miniature CCTV cameras in underwear sold to potential pedophiles. The definition of pedophile has been expanded to include "any man, clothed or not, who may potentially have an erection, while perambulating through, markets, parishes and other public places".

David MacKinnon, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Another revenue producer targeting just one section of road users. If the government was truly concerned about road safety they would have increased the width of current roads to incorporate cycle lanes rather than decrease the amount of width given to cars and more importantly lorries. Can't the authorities see that the more wallet threatening schemes they introduce the more likelihood that the unregistered, uninsured road user will increase, especially given the feeble fines when caught? Given the number of cyclists on the road compared to cars isn't there also a case for powered wheel chair users to have their own lane as well ?

C. Young, Hampshire,

Common sense has been removed from our roads. I was caught driving in the last 30m of a bus lane in Hampstead as I turned left. The road ahead was blocked by an accident. I challenged the PCN. I was seen by the adjudicator who ruled that there was no valid reason to drive in a bus lane unless instructed to do so by a Police Officer. So the fact that I a) was "trapped" there and couldn't move and b) there was no obstruction to any bus was completely lost on the jobsworth.

His view is that I should have waited until the police arrived or hell froze over. The later would no doubt happened first.

No doubt many will be fined by this system which will have nothing to do with safety improvements and everything to do with raising more revenue. The roads could be made safer for all if those responsible filled in all the pot holes!

Marc Levine, Harrow, Uk

Why is it motorists are always deemed to be the culprits on the roads? I was a cyclist for many years but I did not ignore red lights nor did I hurtle along the pavement forcing pedestrians to leap aside. Perhaps bicycles should have number plates then they too can look forward to something in the post.

Anthony Gardner, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire

Has anyone considered the benefit of VAT to the govenrment on the introduction of HIPs?

Douglas Warwick, Ottershaw, Surrey

yet another money making scam to rob motorists , i'm a bus driver and when traffic lights change ( green then amber for .003 of a second then red ) quick its hard for us to brake in a safe manner for our passengers ... that means means from time to time yes you have to intrude on the bike box ... well done powers that be this bus driver intends leaving the job now as am sick of cameras and fines for every little mistake .. ps cyclists dont need them anyway as they never obey red lights .

al, stockwell, london

This is exactly why I moved to Chicago 4 years ago. In the UK it seems to me that politicians think that all problems can be solved with a fine. It is taxation and should stop.
I am so glad not to be part of the UK way of life.........I feel sorry that my Country of birth is so mean, petty and so preoccupied with stealing hard earnt money from its' Citizens.

Is it me or is Gordon Brown a dour miserable looking Scotsman??

Paul Barrett, Hinsdale, Illinois

Fines for motorists and fines for cyclists proposed by commentators - yet the fault and responsibility for London's traffic chaos must surely rest with Mayor 'Red Ken' Livingstone. He is the one who set all the traffic lights at red for most of the time, so that unless one is a Lewis Hamilton or a Chris Boardman its impossible to get past them. So what do people do ? Cheat of course, otherwise they would never get anywhere, which is just what 'Red Ken' wants. He should be sacked - at least potential replacement Boris Johnson rides a bike and might do something a bit more positive for cyclists and those unfortunate motorists who have to venture into the London area...

Rob, Fareham, Hampshire

An £80 fine for stealing from a shop (or nothing if the thief says sorry). A £120 fine if your car crosses into a bike lane, even if you are pulling over to let an emergency vehicle pass.
Who is responsible for this? Will they explain this lunacy?

Steve, Birmingham,

Cycle lanes are usually a waste of money, poorly designed always obstructed by parked cars, rivers in the wet, potholed and usually littered with glass and other rubbish. These seldom take a direct route and leave a cyclist with no choice but to go with the traffic if they actually want to get anywhere. I think more cameras are a crap idea and will increase the resentment of drivers towards cyclist.
Neither cyclists or car drivers are perfect. I see at least three cars run red lights at every junction I come to. I also see cyclists going through red lights, big deal. I am often confused by the attitude of car drivers they fail to appreciate that they are one car nearer to their destination because I have chosen to cycle. You benefit from every cyclist that you pass and so is it too much to expect that you make that extra effort to look into your mirrors and maybe even give us an extra few millimetres of road!

Simon, Liverpool, Merseyside

Actions speak louder than words. If the councils are genuinely interested in protecting cyclists from motorists, they will spend money to create separate cycle lanes with raised curbs to physically prevent cars from straying into the cyclists territory.
If the councils merely want to exploit an opportunity to issue fixed penalty notices, they will spend money on surveillance cameras.
Let's see what happens.........

Frank Robinson, London,

Try reading the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002 section 5 paragraph 43. It is not illegal for a motor vehicle to stop inside the cycle box if it has proceeded passed the first stop line but can stop before the second to obey a traffic light.

Therefore TfL can't impose a penalty to a driver who is obeying the law by stopping at the advanced stop line.

Frank, Winchester,

As a London cyclist I agree that many cyclists are dangerous and should be stopped from using the roads. This does not mean, however, that responsible cyclists should be slated for trying to do their bit for the environment and health. Drivers should respect other road users and appreciate that cyclists are working to reduce congestion and pollution.

Chris, West Kensington, London

I am both a driver as well as a cyclist - and therefore hope to be in a 'neutral' position to comment. Have you seen the size of the lanes in London? We have moved along quite a bit (I think) since the horse and carriage. Everyone will just have to 'share' and 'make do' with the space that we have. Giving the 'green movement' more power each day isn't going to help! (i) as a cyclist, I will happily have the biggest lane possible and have fines of £thousands imposed on a straying wheel; (ii) as a driver, I will do my very best to avoid paying the fine and also to respect my fellow road-sharing cyclist by giving them a wide berth. However, if Ken's bendy buses are fined for each and every second that their wheels touch the cycle lane, I think the C-Charge should certainly be reduced to about 10p a day, which should make driving affordable in London again, which would get people off bikes, and more space in the cycle lanes!! Win-Win situation!!!

MT, London,

During a short holiday in London last week, I was gobsmacked to see a very young woman, no headgear, brazenly rollerblading along Praed Street, by Paddington Station. On the pavement? - not she - she was travelling in the main road and, passing motorists seemed to be oblivious!

ShirleyB. Blackpool

shirley bowen, Blackpool, UK

Safer to whom:
Riding on pavements
Riding the wrong way along streets,
Riding without lights,
Not have a warning sysytem such as a bell.
Riding without a safety helmet.
Using the public roads for racing.
No other road user gets away with this.
A few years ago this behaviour would not be tolerated.
Perhaps for the safety of all these offences should be brought to book.

Bernard Parke, GUILDFORD,

Stop boxes for cyclists? Never seen a cyclst in one, lots of motorcycles though....I shall soon been a cyclist commuter and ignore all the rules, tfl cannot fine me then with CCTV!

andrew, london,

What about the reverse penalties for cyclists that fail to stop at traffic lights, that go into the wrong lane to go straight ahead at traffic lights,that show no lights at night, that fail to indicate their change of direction. It is all one way against the motorist that has established rights of way on roads that are now being overruled in order to promote cycling as a way of life. All very well if there is time to do it as part of a normal way of life and if you are young and fit- but if not?? But why ,if they are occupying 20% of the road - are cyclists not charged 20% of its upkeep by way of a licence. After all the rest of us - i.e. 100% have to occupy the remaining 80% of the road - causing it to be further overcrowded, and to disintegrate even quicker and cause further pollution and jams for the benfit of a non-paying minority.

Roy Baker, Guildford, Surrey

Yet more tax on the motorist by Red Ken - and of course is absolutely nothing to do with road safety. If he wants to actually make the roads safer he should ban mopeds from Central London altogether. It is only a matter of time before these idiots get themselves killed while zipping through the traffic.

James Bartley, Reading, Berkshire

Just by the comments here alone you can feel the antagonism.

It seems that asking people to obey the rules doesn't work, so cameras are needed in places. Those who take the time to drive or ride carefully won't get fined, so there's no need to stress. Just drive properly and you won't be fined. Easy, no?

We're all trying to get somewhere and if we all showed some consideration and made sincere attempts to follow the rules of the road, traveling by bike, foot, or car would be simpler and more fun.

Mark Burton, Reading and Poitiers, UK and France

Learner drivers taking lessons with their instructors have no problem whatsoever in keeping out of cycle lanes, or going forward past advanced stop lines. They are educated in the subject as well as their overall responsibility regarding the safety of other road users.
'Experienced' drivers with a 'bad attitude' are the only people who will be bleating about the proposed fines for offenders. Buying some remedial driving lessons, together with 'attitude training', should easily resolve their selfishness.

Russell Jones, Nottinghamshire, UK

Typical 'stop-go' government. You must work hard to pay the crippling taxes - but we'll make it harder and harder to go to work because we disapprove of you driving, polluting, smoking, breathing etc........

Peter, Oxford, UK

Cycling on the pavement is illegal under Clause 54 of the Highway Code, and more needs to be done to tackle the problem of this law being ignored. I am a pedestrian and I own neither a car nor a bike. I am nearly run over by a cyclist several times a week. I have never, ever been remotely near run over by a car in my entire life. If you're too scared to cycle on the roads, you shouldn't be cycling at all. Get off and walk.

Karen, London, UK

This is nothing to do with safety once again the anti-car authorities has found another way of penalising the motorists and make some money in the process. If proper cycle paths were built as they have in other European cities this sort of measure would not be needed.
But this would mean of course that the authorities would have to spend money and not be able to generate it through fines - it appals me.

Andy, Leeds, UK

Peter of Plymouth wrote:
"I would have thought the advance stop boxes purpose was obvious-it's so you can clearly see cyclists & not crush them as you race from the lights. "

Are you sure? If so why do they extend out to the centre of the road? I was under the impression that they were there solely so cyclists could dither about in the middle of the road and obstruct the flow of traffic away from the lights.

MIke Bibby, St Albans, England -not EU

More spy cameras, more fines, more people doing useless jobs.

From the same brains that restrict parking to ease trafifc flow then build hazards into the road to slow it down.

Mark, Oldham,

I agree with the policing of cycle boxes at junctions. They are a great help to cyclists safety especially at a junction where one lane carries straight on and the the other turns left of right. As for cycle lanes some are so poorly though out and designed it's a joke. I'm a cyclist but above else a road user and see no problem if a car has to use that extra foot to to keep traffic flowing as long as they move out of it again.
I'd like to see to see a move to the Dutch model of dedicated cycle lanes/paths and also better education for both drives and cyclists in road use.

Steve, London,

I recommend my children to cycle on the pavement whenever possible. This means whenever there aren't any pedestrians around. I tell them to stop and pull over whenever they meet a pedestrian and always be polite. With some of the posters here like Terry from London who recommends physiical assaults on children (surprised he is still on the site by the way) it makes me feel quite nervous but the road is far too dangerous for kids. It used to be that drivers looked out for children on the road. Nowadays they positively endanger them. All over Europe cyclists and pedestrians share pavements and roads in a safe and sensible manner. Mind you most Europeans seem to be far better drivers when it comes to cyclists and pedestrian safety because they probably use their bikes as well and understand the road. much better. Driving in a cycling lane should mean having to cycle everywhere for a few months. Driving in a bus lane should mean having to take the bus Much more appropriate punishment

Samuel Gee, Farnham, UK

It could only come from a green female transport adviser to Livingstone that '...better enforcement will give people, particularly women, more confidence...'. I would not be surprised if Ms Jones also advised TFL of the necessity of women only cycle lanes.

phil w, sutton, surrey

It is a great conflict of interest for the police to financially benefit from fines. Schemes like this will proliferate until all revenue from traffic fines goes to the schools, as is the law in many US states.

Jim Connors, Durham,

Thank heavens I don't live in London. And people still support Livingstone? The mind boggles.

Ian, Bristol,

At the top of Park Lane is a bollard with a keep left arrow. It prohibits traffic from passing on the right and going down Park Lane. All traffic should proceed along Oxford Street. Of course drivers who are going down Park Lane ignore it.

That bollard is just one of many hundreds in London, and elsewhere, with impossible instructions. But every driver that passes on the wrong side of a directional arrow is breaking the law.

How are drivers supposed to distinguish mandatory traffic signs they can ignore from those that will carry a stiff penalty for infringement, such as cycle lanes and cycle boxes? Will the next Highway Code advise drivers to obey traffic signs with a CCTV camera nearby and ignore the rest?

I'm a cyclist and a driver. We're all people and mutual respect allied with caution before haste would solve all the problems listed in these comments.

Christopher Daws, London,

"Even minor infringements, such as moving briefly into a cycle lane to pass a vehicle turning right, will result in a fixed penalty"

So cars will form a queue behind the turning vehicle, causing congestion and increasing carbon emissions. Well that's all right then!

OneNationTory, London,

All too often cycle lanes are installed without any reference to the needs of actual cyclists but rather to hit one of those ‘’targets’ that get councils some kudus.
The fact that cyclists organizations or local cycling clubs have not been consulted by the all too often chair bound motorist responsible for the often ridiculous cycle lanes is evident by their lack of use! Everyone will have seen examples of ludicrous cycle lanes that are either five metres long on a main road or end up against a brick wall!
In my area there are cycle lanes alongside wide dual carriageways with 30MPH limits but the moment the road narrows, goes uphill, the speed limit ends or comes to a roundabout (all places where a bit of consideration for the safety of the cyclist is needed) the cycle lane ends!
Forcing cyclists onto grit strewn tracks for 100 metres before telling them to dismount, rejoin the main road for 20 metres then back onto the track and repeating this time and again (another road near me) is counterproductive.
As for paying insurance and a form of road tax; well some two million motorists illegally evade both, and are disproportionably involved in serious road accidents and of course we have the several million company and business car users who claim the cost of motoring back via the tax system.

Tom, Kidderminster, Worcs

Amazing, the level of ignorance displayed on this talkback. I'm pretty worried that some of you hold driving licenses at all

For a start, it's always been illegal to put a car in mandatory cycle lanes (clearly marked with a solid white line as opposed to a broken line advisory one). It's also illegal for cyclists to use the pavement or jump lights. They can & do get fined. Would someone like to point out the connection with the piece & why everyone feels so hard done by?

As for tax the road network is funded through the local council or central government, not your vehicle excise duty. OK bikes pay tax: engine size? emissions? axle weight? How exactly? Some cars also pay no tax - your choice.

Finally I would have thought the advance stop boxes purpose was obvious-it's so you can clearly see cyclists & not crush them as you race from the lights. The idea is you then pass them carefully & and not act like spoiled children because you are delayed for 5 seconds

Peter, Plymouth, Devon, UK

As a motorcyclist/motorist who ventures into London fairly frequently (never by car these days) I observe that congestion in London is exacerbated by 'traffic calming' schemes, road narrowing, cycle lanes, bus lanes, badly phased traffic lights, and of course a lot of traffic. Worst of all, though, is bad driving often caused by driver frustration. Congestion can be eased by addressing not just the volume of traffic but also ways in which to keep it moving faster, and everything done to date is all about slowing traffic down. Where do you think this is going to end up?

This latest proposal is just one more way to a) increase revenues from 'fines', and b) increase congestion therefore justifying yet another increase in the charge itself and the extent of the charging area.

It's time for the 'get rid of traffic by any means possible' approach to die, and some positive moves be made to address the causes of congestion rather than penalising those who are trapped with no way out.

Brian, Farnham, UK

"Cameras... to hit drivers...." (your headline). Oh dear, shouldn't have put them so close to the kerb edge.

Barry, Wallington, UK

While I agree in priciple with the proposals, I do understand that the behaviour of some cyclists causes drivers frustration. I cycle frequently and always try to obey the traffic lights. Surely the idiots who do are suicidal maniacs, especially if they live around London.

Those anti-cyclists always use the antics of the idiot cyclists to try and prevent rules protecting all the other cyclists. We will soon be needing to use our bikes a lot more, and stop relying on our cars. Cycling is more exciting, anyway!

Chris, Epsom,

Cycles should pay the same road tax as any other zero emissions vehicle. None and righly so.

Mandy, Derby,

Lots of good comments and being a runner, pedestrian, cyclist and car driver I can sympathise with most people but I firmly believe that most cyclists, note most, are ignorant of the rules of the road. Red lights/Amber Lights/Green lights are all one colour to most cyclists and that is green. Add to that the illegal use of pavements by all parties concerned including triple baby buggies and what chance does the ordinary pedestrian stand.

It is sad to say that our infrastructure is not up to it and maybe a leaf should be taken out of the Dutch systems. Cameras are all well and good but just think how many times a day you could stray into a cycle lane and bingo you could have an overdraft.

I believe the government and its agencies are jumping the gun here a bit and wouldn't the money this sort of scheme would cost be better spent on flood defences and global warming prevention.

Ivor Hopkins, Abingdon, OXON

Would Jenny Jones be as infuriated if, like me, she was crossing at a pedestrian crossing when it's gone green but unlike the motorists, a cyclist ignores this and hits her at high speed, makes no apology and then leaves her shocked and bruised in the middle of the street? Would she then feel incensed enough to start enforcing the EXISTING laws in the Highway Code that actually covers cyclists as well as motorists?

As for Rob's comments, first the spelling is awful. Secondly, I think we'll be happier if the cyclists are made to obey the rules too. Just because it's green doesn't mean it absolves cyclists of all road responsibilities.

Helen Lay, London, UK

I'm sorry Ewan but are you CRAZY?! overtaking cars in the normal manner would be suicide in london! definately fine drivers who stray, as well as moped and motorbike riders who seem to think they can use the cycle lans and stop box's. get bus's to pay attention to cyclists and widen cycle lanes so that taxi's and others dont have doors swinging open whilst your riding along!
more bikes and we'll be a happier, healthier, greener nation

Rob, london, uk

These comments about cyclists having no rights because they don't pay to use the roads are absurd. In my local area i use a bicycle almost all the time, but pay to maintain both a car and a motorbike, which are both off the road when I'm cycling. And as a matter of principle I don't mind "subsidising" cyclists who don't have other means of transport, such as kids.

In my experience\the most verbally vociferous anti-cyclists also tend to be the most reckless and selfish drivers. Never mind fines - I think the standard penalty for bad driving should be a period of disqualification, and the automatic penalty for driving whilst disqualified should be a massive fine for a first offence and thereafter imprisonment.

We need our cyclists and pedestrians to be safe.

Peter, Oxford,

I have cycled everyday into central london for the last 7 years. I have read all the comments and there are the usual ones, either blame cyclists or blame drivers. Fact is, we all use the road and therefore, we should all follow the highway code. All road users do break or have broken the highway code at some time. The result is that certain actions can cause death, ie speeding. And now most cycle deaths are from vehicles turning. So enforcement is needed. I welcome the new plan for cameras.

However, enforcement is also needed by the police too. Only last night, a cyclist went through a red light, across a busy junction and two PCOS officers on mopeds.....did NOTHING!

Also i think some cyclists need training on how to use the road properly. Either its at snails pace or on the pavement.

Pedestrians are the biggest danger for all road users, and jay walking should be illegal. There is no personal responsibility. And road users are to blame everytime.

Emma, London,

they seem to forget that drivers are entitled to drive/wait in a cycle advance stop area, if they crossed the first line before the lights changed to red.

I suspect the vast majority of such infringements are due to the fact that traffic meant they had to stop in the bay. There is no requirement in law to keep the bay clear unlike say a keep clear area.

I think London's record on yellow box and give way signs shows that this is really just about making money and very little to do with road safety. They also seem to get it wrong more often than not

Its also worth noting that very few cycle advanced stops actually comply with the requirements to be enforceable.

Has any research been done to prove that cycle advanced stops actually improve safety in the UK. It really doesn't make sense to put vulnerable road users in front of queing cars.

nigel, Surrey,

I still don't see what the problem is with bikes using the pavement. Sure, it hurts if you're hit by a bike but as risks go i'd rather be a slightly hurt pedestrian than a dead cyclist. Putting cycle lanes on the pavement would help to both keep cyclists safer and provide car drivers with one less hassle to worry about. Everyone wins! Well, apart from legislators looking to use unjustifably rigid laws to gain large amounts of revenue.

Nick G, London,

"Cyclists, red lights, pavements, don't stop, blah blah."

Many cyclists are also motorists. Almost all of them are also pedestrians.

It is not illegal for a cyclist to use the road, even where there is a cycle lane in place - often the road is a far more sensible option for the cyclist, as the councils tend to put the cycle lanes in ridiculous places, and where it happens to run along a pavement, homeowners see the lines as extended parking spaces.

Cyclists tend to have a more balanced view of all of the issues. For those who cycle through lights, on pavements, etc - it's not because they're cyclists, it's because they're idiots.

Lee D, Reading, UK

Pedal bikes have almost no right to be on the road.

Remind me again how much VED you pay towards their upkeep?

Boober, Glasgow,

Instead of focusing on cyclists who already have marked areas why don't you deal with the issue of motorcycles sharing Bus Lanes? Or are you only interested in generating more revenue from fines?

MartinG, Reading, UK

As a cyclist, when I see all cars stopping at red lights and pedestrian crossings, following road signs and generally obeying the highway code, I'll do the same. There are a thousand times more cars on the road and they're far more dangerous.

Ellen Morris, Leeds,

I think that Craig of Liverpool doesn't realize that the majority of adult cyclists are also car owners and pay the same rates of road tax as he does.
On the days they use their bicycyles , they cause little or no wear and tear on the roads compared with motor vehicles.

However neither cyclists nor pedestrians nor public transport users get discount on their road tax for the days they don't drive.

Heavy vehicle owners etc. also pay more road tax than car owners hence ,from a financial perpective, the car driver should show respect and always wait patiently behind Lorries Trucks and Buses.

Alfred, Dundee, UK

To Dave and others,
Cycling on a shared use foot path beside a main road is far more dangerous than cycling in the road. This is because it creates extra complications at junctions, the path are full of debris, and pedestrians and dogs wander unpredictably on them.
The road is where cyclists should be, and where we are safest.

99% of on road cycle lanes are poorly designed and dangerous, they are usually there so councils can tick a box on a form, not for the cyclist.

Martin, Bristol, England

I cycle daily to work in London. I believe this new initiative will not work and is fundamentally flawed. It will not improve cyclists safety, but it will be another revenue generator for local councils.

If the government is serious about improving conditions for cyclists they should educate drivers adn cyclists alike about the potential dangers to them both. Targeting one group will satisy one side, but alieniate the other.

Besides, the greatest danger cyclists face in London, comes not from normal motorists, but from the drivers of London buses - who seem to think that any one in their way is fair game.

Brian Lewis, London,

When the cyclists pay for their cycle lanes they can swagger about imposing fines for driving into them. Till then they are just free-loaders. No consideration, no contract. Cycling is no longer just for spinsters on the way to evensong. It is is a form of urban mass transport, and needs to be properly funded, regulated and insured as such.

Philippa Pirie, London , England

I still don't see what the problem is with bikes using the pavement. Sure, it hurts if you're hit by a bike but as risks go i'd rather be a slightly hurt pedestrian than a dead cyclist. Putting cycle lanes on the pavement would help to both keep cyclists safer and provide car drivers with one less hassle to worry about. Everyone wins! Well, apart from legislators looking to use unjustifably rigid laws to gain large amounts of revenue.

Nick G, London,

Great. What next? Cameras to fine you if you change the radio station whilst moving? Or hit the kerb when you do a 3 point turn? How about cameras in car parks that fine you if you don't park exactly in a space - oh hang on, i HATE it when people park like that.

I thought it was obvious the advanced stop lines are just to help stop anyone going through red lights as you have to stop earlier. It's all nothing really to do with cyclists because the cycle routes in London will never be adequate, just another way to raise safety levels (and income).

If i get fined for being in a cyclist stop zone i'll just say 'You didn't see the car behind bump into me' - can they prove it didn't happen?

Justin, Alford, Lincs, UK

The attitude of some car drivers disgusts me, some basic consideration on the roads would make them much safer for a start.

I think everything possible should be done to promote cycling. It's cheaper, healthier, greener and in rush hour, mostly faster.

You complain about cyclists who dont abide by some of the rules of the road, this is because 9 times out of 10 it's safer not to. If I can see a driver is not paying attention to me at a junction, I'm not going to take a chance for the sake of a rule, which if not protecting me, is useless.

Bikes have just as much right to be on the road, and if the comments above sum up the general views of car drivers then maybe rules and laws should be enforced.

Maybe some of you people should get on a bike and ride to work and see how you like it, an accident isn't so pretty when you are not surrounded by 1 tonne of metal and safety precautions.

Im not some sort of bike nut, this is common sense stuff!

Simon, Midlands, England

Since the regular police evidently give low priority to certain traffic offences, it is high time that a dedicated Traffic Police Force be established, with the sole reponsibility for controlling traffic (e.g. in emergencies, and when lights have failed), and for enforcing the traffic laws, especially with regard to stopping at red lights and pedestrian crossings (cars and cycles), cycling without lights and on pavements, and driving while using a mobile phone.
Disregard for these rules is widespread (at least in London) and in the absence of any sign of enforcement it will only increase.

Elizabeth Marden, London, UK

"London streets are not
designed for co-existence of cyclist and cars and painting more white lines exacerbates the problem - and the engineered congestion."

So ban cars from central london. There is a perfectly good public transport system which the majority of people use.

Peter, London,

Of course its yet another tax-scam.

My local Higways Authority have been planning for this for over two years. As part of a £6million unwanted "safety" scheme that's almost brought traffic to a halt they have painted in new cycle lanes.

Whats that? A good idea? maybe - if they hadn't done it in order to make the traffic lanes so narrow that its physically impossible to get a Mondeo down them without straying into the cycle lane. Presumably they are hoping to get some of the £6million back in un-avoidable fines!

MIke Bibby, St Albans, England -not EU

I cycle daily from Wimbledon to Oxford Street to work. I believe this is a positive step, all too often cars, but more so motorbikes infringe into cycle lanes and the Advanved Stop lines. Those facilities are there to make cycling safer and more attractive.

However, I would like to add I still want to see cyclist punished for jumping red lights, riding on pavements and through pedestrian crossings. It only turns other road users against us.

Mark, London,

I cycle into Central London most days and it is fair to say that 99 per cent of drivers pay no attention to the cycle boxes - in fact I'm fairly certain that most drivers are oblivious to the fact that they exist at all. Having been pushed out of the boxes many a time by rush hour drivers I fully support the use of cameras and the enforcemnet of fines. I hasten to add that I'm not a cyclist who ignores red lights and would also support fines for cyclists who appear to believe that traffic lights are optional. As both a cycist and a driver I feel that all raod users need to honour the laws of the road more - and if fining those who breach the rules is what it takes then so beit.

Anthony Walters, London, UK

Cyclists, great to have you on bikes cutting down on congestion but please stop undertaking cars. You will only have yourself to blame if the inevitable happens. If you want to overtake a slow moving car, do just that, overtake them, on the right, like all other road users must do.

Ewan , sherborne,

Poor drivers, treated like a "milch cow", simply standing there miding their own businesses, and someone comes up and demands money. Its just like speed cameras, isn't it?

But wait! No! There is a way to avoid paying a ingle penny more!

Just don't do the crime you, half-wit.

The spacial awareness of drivers in this country has descended to an appalling level, apparent on motorways as wll as city and country lanes. Any way of teaching a driver better spacial awareness is spetacularly good nes or all road users, pavement uses, an for thos who have to scrape up the consequences of the dreadful lack of drier education and thorough testing.

Cyclists deserve a wde (and long) berth and they always get one from me. Drive for an hour on the continent an you'll see a spectacular diference in attitude and will see just how possible it is to be harmonious co-road users.

Hedopsforglory, Cotwolds,

GOOD QUESTION: Shall I drift for a moment into the cycle lane, which is empty, or risk hitting another vehicle which is straying towards my side of the road to avoid hitting a pedestrian about to cross the road. Both actions will result in either a fine or an expense, although a quick calculation as one drives towards disaster is always easy.....unless one is on the mobile or texing at the time.......

Derek Clifton, Andover, Hampshire, England

As an ex-cyclist, I feel both mototists and cyclists ignore the rules of the road. As we (cyclists) do not have to have a licence, insurance or tax, why do we care how we use roads seems to me the attitude.

Many times I have seen groups of cyclists 2, 3 or more abreast, ignoring pedestrians trying to cross at designated crossings and even running red traffic lights. There can not be enforcement of laws pertaining to cyclists, but it's always to the registed motorist who is traceable for any traffic offences.

We all share the road and it's time that we all start be a lot more considerate in how we drive or cycle.

Barry, Tonbridge, Kent

Craig:

Many cyclists, myself included, do pay road tax: we own cars but choose not to use them when cycling is possible for environmental and congestion reasons.

I welcome anything that will make cycling safer; having lost a dear friend through an accident that was not his fault, having seen a number of serious cycle vs. motor vehicle accidents, having been cut up on a number of occasions and having been hit by a bus (also not my fault) I am only too aware of the risks it presents. In car vs cycle, regardless of fault, the cyclist is more likely to suffer injury, being not encased in a safety cage.

However, until drivers change their attitude towards cyclists fines of this type are unlikely to improve matters. The minority of both drivers and cyclists who are anti-social make life difficult for the majority of us who, regardless of our method of transport, follow the rules of the road and try to remain courteous to fellow road users, despite frequent provocation.

Arianne Herder, Cambridge,

There is a myriad of legitimate safety reasons why a motorist might be forced to stop inside a cycle box at traffic lights. Will the motorist be allowed to explain himself without fear of even greater punishment? No way, you'll get double the fine if you have the audacity to appeal.

More and more it seems the authorities are just trying to catch us out when we are forced to break the inflexible rules that they have themselves imposed. The fact that some people cheerlead for further such beatings to be administered to the population is a sick psycho-drama of self-punishment which presumably induces feelings of moral superiority.

Remember, the arbitrary use of government power is tyranny.

David Rochester, Liverpool, UK

maybe cyclists should also be charged road tax? and how about parking? or liable for when i have to swerve to miss them coming out of nowhere and cycling in the 'car' lane, isn't that the road?

Michael, London,

"and of course riding on the pavement"

Why do you think they ride on the pavement, Mike? Because there are either no cycle paths, or cars are parked/stopped on the cycle lanes. It's either ride on the pavement (carefully, of course) or get killed. You can start fining cyclists 100 quid for cycling on the pavement, but I bet they'd rather pay the fine than get squashed by the first available lorry.

Starling, Lancaster,

While crime goes generally unpunished, people are persecuted simply for rmaking mistakes. Is it sinister political control, lazy policing or fund raising? No wonder people are getting more cynical by the day.

Ben , Bognor Regis, uk

The highway code is there for all road users - rules should apply equally to motor vehicles and cyclists (and pedestrians). If someone breaks the law then they should not complain if they are caught - be it 'straying' into a mandatory cycle lane or ASL. The same is true for cyclists - go through a red light and get a fine. The latest figures that 30% of motor vehicles are not taxed or insured is worrying (higher figures for motorcycles) so bringing in similar for cyclists would not be easy. We need more visual enforcement on the roads.

roger stocker, london, uk

This will only apply to cycle lanes marked with a solid white line. Most cycle lanes have broken white lines - usually because parking or loading is allowed part of the time. These are not enforceable in this way.

Tom, London,

It would be more sensible to get rid of most, if not all, of the cycle lanes: they're usually badly designed & dangerous, and give motorists the false impression that cyclists shouldn't be on the road. Sensible cyclists avoid cycle lanes: they are safest when they act, and are treated, as just another vehicle.

Mark, Derbyshire,

Motorists should stay out of cycle lanes, regardless of what cyclists do. To say "when will cyclist be fined £120 for jumping lights" is irrelevant. Cyclist are put in danger due to them not being seen on the road, especially at junctions, this is what the advance stop lines are for.

Cylists can annoy and scare pedistrans by cycling in an illegal manner, this should be discouraged, but it isn't as serious as people dying. So we should prioritise laws and fines based on who we can save from serious injury.

PS Next time you are walking through central London see how often cars go through the stop lights (this includes amber, unless it's dangerous to stop), often accelerating, after they've change from green. This could be more often than you think, perhaps because you are looking for gaps in the traffic, rather than the lights

Ben, Walthamstow, UK

This is great news.
I'm a keen cyclist and know of many others who would take up the hobby in and around central london except they believe it's too dangerous.
Most of these drivers have valid points but they are ignoring the fact that cycling in London is very dangerous.
The issues of traffic in London aren't caused by cyclists but by congestion from motor vehicles. Cycling helps relieve congestion.

Zachariah Jackson, Wapping,

Here in Brighouse, West Yorkshire residents park in cycle lanes as they they have nowhere else to park.

Similarily, cycle lanes end when the going gets tough and leaves the poor cyclist to fend for him/her self

Michael T Bullock, Elland, West Yorkshire

I trust the cameras will also apprehend cyclist who don't use cycle paths where provided, emerge from side streets without regard for the traffic they are entering and those who think red lights are for girlies!!

Peter Gore, Oxon, UK

I am a cyclist in London and you have to be both assertive and agressive when cycling in order to be seen and be safe, cars and in particular black taxis don't leave enough room when overtaking, it is a cars width according to the highway code (which no ones reads once they have a passed the driving test) new legislation is a waste of time and money why can't we be governed by a bit of common sense and good old fashioned fisty-cuffs to sort out disputes, my D-Lock vs a set of car keys, I know who my money is on!!
Cyclists should also pay a road tax, but then have a 100% rebate as a carbon off-set measure for not inducing global warming.

Russell, London,

As has been pointed out, such enforcement would only apply to mandatory cycle lanes, which are few, and to ASL's. Also, cycle lanes mark out those areas which drivers should not use, not those areas which a cyclist must use. After all cyclists have a legal right to use the road whilst driving on the public road is a privilege controlled through licence.

Often a marked cycle lane is not the safest place for a cyclist to be. For example, if they are making a right turn. The new version of 'The Highway Code' makes this clear stating:

Rule 63: Cycle Lanes. These are marked by a white line (which may be broken) along the carriageway. When using a cycle lane, keep within the lane when practicable... Use of these facilities is not compulsory and will depend on your experience and skills, but they can make your journey safer.

As to requiring cyclists to carry registration plates, this requirement does not seem to deter motorists from speeding, using mobiles and all the rest!

Howard, Hull,

It's a shame that TfL don't act so promptly on the issue of motorcyclists sharing Bus Lanes, would this be because there's no revenue in it?

Martin, Reading, UK

The cause of road safety is best served by encouraging courtesy, discretion, good manners, and respect for other road users.

Unfortunately, automatic penalisation via zero-discretion camera systems tends to have the opposite effect.

This measure, if adopted, will, I fear, have a serious negative unintended consequence: motorists will "defend" "their" patch of the road all the more aggressively against "intrusion" by cyclists, who "ought" to be in their cycle lanes - and, by extension, have no rights once they have ventured out of a cycle lane.

(Cycle lanes are sometimes the right place for bicycles, but they are often so badly designed that it is unsafe for cyclists to stick to them.)

The law needs to be respected if it is to result in improved behaviour. Law-enforcement systems, such as camera-based fixed-penalty notices, which remove the vital element of sensible discretion, do not engender respect and so tend not to improve behaviour.

Ed, Exeter, UK

I agree, if your going to penalise drivers for using the road, then penalise cyclists for using the pavement. And i feel it fair that cyclists pay insurance and mot their cycle.

And is it me or do the powers that be deem it fit to fine drivers when money seems to be running low...?

Taylor, Leicester,

Great idea. You can pretty much guarantee that there will be a car in the advanced stop area for cyclists. However, planners need to give far greater priority to the needs of cyclists when designing road layouts.

Radford, Nottingham,

I think you'll find the cycling community in general is far more aware of the Highway Code than the motorists who glibbly claim that cyclists ignore it. Further, cyclists are not obliged to use cycle lanes, see the current Highway Code and the new, revised version being discussed at present.

I'd like to know why motorists think that cyclists are like skittles? They don't fall over and get up again, hit a cyclist and chances are you'll do them serious damage. Everyone who regularly rides a bike on the roads in this country can cite myriad incidents of being cut up by motorists unaware that cyclists should be treated as being six foot wide (see Highway Code).

Road users should all try to understand each other and while I agree some cyclists should be advised on their cycling, far more motorists should learn to respect cyclists. Why I should be physically threatened in this country for riding a bike when in Europe I am treated as an equal on the road is boyond me.

Dave, Preston,

I am an ex cyclist who would like to go back to cycling. But it is just too dangerous to cycle with my children to school. The cycle lanes often end abruptly and illogically and many motorists are impatient and discourteous towards cyclists. Having said that, cyclists urgently need to up their game. Last year a friend of mine was knocked down and badly hurt by a woman on a bicycle who did not stop at a pelican crossing when the light was against her. The other day my children and I were sworn at by a man who was cycling along the pavement where we were walking. My young daughter, was treated aggressively by a cyclist on a shared path in Richmond Park. He was angry because she had stopped her bike so that the rest of the family could catch up with her (we were on foot). Today I saw a cyclist on a fast 3 lane stretch of the A3, oblivious to the chaos he was causing in the lane behind him. We all, drivers and cyclists, need to follow the rules and share the roads courteously.

Bridget, London,

They are not cycle lanes they are death traps narrowing allready narrow roads even more ... TFL should go and have a look in the Netherlands and see how you do cycle landes propperly. As a cloggie I wouldnt get on a bicycle in London even if you paid me

alex , London, uk

A friend of my wife is now bringing up her sisters child; child's mother was killed, whilst cycling in a cycle lane, by a driver when he drove into the cycle lane.
A car is a lethal weapon; too many motorists treat them like toys.

Doug, Birmingham,

I am not anti-cyclist. I think that it is great that more people are cycling and that there's such a variety of road-user. However my experience is that cyclists do not follow the rules of the road and by this negligence are a hazard. Examples: they do not stop at red traffic lights, and in haste may clip car wing mirrors, not stopping to say sorry or check if they have caused damage; they are often without lights at night (front and back); they may cycle up one way streets the wrong way, at speed, taking pedestrians who are looking the other way (including children) unawares. I would like for each cycle to be uniquely identifiable as are cars or motorbikes. Maybe this does not have to be visible, but can be electronic - a transponder, the signal being picked up by a device cited with cycle lane camera. This can then be checked if there is an incident. Thank you.

Azad Khaleel, London, UK

Why doesn't Transport for London deal with the issue of motorcycles sharing bus lanes or are they only interested in projects generating further revenue?

MartinG, Reading, UK

To anyone mentioning Road Tax.

Vehicle Excise Duty is paid directly to the treasury. The non-motorway network is maintained by the local council. There is no link between the two. To say motorists have more right to the road than cyclists due them paying road tax makes less sense than saying one person deserves to use the road more because they pay more council tax. Which is pretty silly

Ben, Walthamstow, UK

I'm a regular cyclist in London and after reading most of the comments here I have to say cyclists are generally law abidding. The only reasons cyclists would occupy most of the roads or jump red lights is because it may be safer that way in protecting yourself from reckless car, lorry and bus drivers that want to squeeze cyclists onto the kerb or overtake them when there's not enough room to do so. By enforcing all road rules ON BOTH cyclists and motor vehicles we will enable more people to feel comfortable on using cycles on roads and hence reduce the traffic and pollution for everyone's benefit.

Tinkoo, London,

I am a daily cyclist myself and have nearly been hit by careless cars several times whilst undertaking in supposedly safe cycle lanes. However this proposal is absurd. For a start, most cycle lanes are of the voluntary sort (with dashed lines) and I believe these aren't illegal for cars to enter.

Secondly, there is nothing wrong with a car briefly entering a cycle lane to pass a car turning right etc, AS LONG AS they check that there are no cyclists coming. Finally most cycle lanes are so haphazard and inconsistent that it means just one more thing for drivers to have to focus on, rather than the road.

How many more stealth taxes will we need before we wake up to the lunacy of Ken and this government.

Dan, London,

Several of our local important roads including the A127 London - Southend road have cycle paths which we have paid for; why is it that cyclists use the roads and ignore the special tracks which are well clear of the car areas an, one would think, safer?

What do the police do when cyclists ride down the centre of the road and minimum speed deliberately holding up traffic? Nothing

I don't mind cyclists - IF they try to be reasonable road users but I have yet to see any such.

David Brown, Brentwood, Essex

I cycle every day to and from work and stay clear of busy roads at peak times. There's no continouos cycle route network here, so I have to use pavements. Roads are too narrow for both cars and cyclists and so are pavements with infinite number of cars parked alongside. Fining cyclists is a ridiculous idea, somehow we have to survive in that traffic jungle after all.

Agnes , L'pool, UK

Austen,

I think you need to revise your highway code:

119: Cycle lanes. These are shown by road markings and signs. You MUST NOT drive or park in a cycle lane marked by a solid white line during its times of operation. Do not drive or park in a cycle lane marked by a broken white line unless it is unavoidable. You MUST NOT park in any cycle lane whilst waiting restrictions apply.
Law RTRA sects 5 & 8

Matthew, Manchester,

Pete from St Albans should check his facts. If you want to know what kills Britain's children and young people it is car crashes, not knife gangs or whatever the latest bogey man might be.

Cyclists are perfectly entitled to use the normal traffic lanes rather than the cycle lane, which is often obstructed, too narrow, full of glass, badly designed, or simply in the wrong place for him to get where he is going - you don't use the left hand lane if you need to turn right unless you don't plan to live very long.

A cyclist riding (legitimately) in the traffic presents no threat to other road users. A motorist abusing a cycle lane presents a very real danger to cyclists, either by his own actions, or by forcing cyclists to make evasive manouvers. That is the difference, it isn't difficult to understand.

It is a shame that some of the foregoing correspondents don't give more thought to why we need cycle lanes - it is because of intolerent attitudes like theirs.

Alasdair Massie, Baldock, Herts

This is to Craig in Liverpool.

When my bike causes a thousandth of the damage your car causes I'll pay a thousandth of the road tax you do. That's not even considering the the rent you don't pay for the amount of space your car takes up on the road. In fact you owe me.

Alf, london,

Cyclists can rarely use cycle lanes as they've been parked in by inconsiderate motorists. Who are breaking the law by doing so I might ad.

Dave, london,

Cyclists deserve all the protection they can get. The only danger they pose is to pedestrians, thus if they do risk the safety of pedestrians by cycling on the pavement then I feel a fine is appropriate.
What drivers seem to forget that it is cars that cause death on the roads, it is cars that cause noise and air pollution, it is cars that take up disproportionate amount of public space.
If by penalising drivers who put cyclist's lives in danger we are able to encourage more drivers out of their cars and onto bicycles, our cities will be cleaner, quieter, safer and have much more space that could be used for wider pavements.

Rory, London,

I live on a very wide road that has been "chicaned", narrowed, bollarded, and now cycle-laned.

I drive up and down this some half dozen times a day and in six months have yet to see a cyclist on it.

Cyclists should pay their share of a road fund licence and carry compulsory insurance and an identifying number.

M J Merriman, Nottingham, UK

As a London cyclist I appreciate how difficult it is to drive a car in the heavy traffic, and spot fines of £120 for breaching the bike lane is ridiculous! Common sense necessitates the breach of certain rules to keep traffic moving in congested zones. It is a TAX plain and simple.
Do not be goaded into the blame game! To suggests cyclists pay to enter the congestion zone, or should require insurance is crazy. It is an environmentally pragmatic approach to travel, with no CO2 emissions, it has health benefits and should be further endorsed like it is in Amsterdam, Paris, China, etc… to reduce congestion.
And how would the driver of a car benefit from a cyclist being insured? For the cost of the dent on bonnet of their car when a cyclist is hit? The damage to the cyclist's bike? Please be reasonable. The reality is cycling insurance would make drivers more likely to be liable for large payouts when cyclists are hit, or bikes are damaged. The idea would only benefit cyclists....

CT, London,

Give cyclists registration numbers and accountability for their actions - have almost been run over by several cyclists because of their dis-regard for other road users, yet for some reason they have special treatment?

The government is constantly on the lookout for revenue streams and cyclists seem to have evaded this for some time - if they're going to take up prime space on the roads with cycle lanes and drivers are going to be charged for straying into these then exactly the same should happen for cyclists - they should be taxed for the roadspace they use and be given compulsory identification for their vehicle / insurance just the same as other road users.

Matt, London,

Are there any plans, I wonder, to keep cyclists off the pavements; pedestrians do still exist

Rodney Barker, Gainsborough, Untited Kingdom

This will not make cycling safer. As a cyclist I often ignore cycle lanes that are poorly designed and dangerous, or simply do not go where I am going. All this will do is antagonise motorists, a minority of whom will behave more aggressively towards cyclist such as myself.

If TfL really want to increase safety for cyclist, how about a informing motorists how much space cyclists need when being overtaken, and teaching cyclists how to behave in heavy traffic.

Martin, Bristol,

Yeah, we know cyclists hate drivers and drivers hate cyclists. So what?! As a cyclist I'd be quite happy to have a number plate on my bike, to pay road tax and be fined if I broke the law. It is only fair that if we all want safe use of the road we should be prepared to pay for it.

It drives me crazy too when 'bad' cyclists block the cycle lane or road, don't signal, don't pay attention to the traffic (usually because they're wearing earphones), cycle on the pavement or jump a red light because I am one of those rare cyclists who DO obey the law, know the highway code and follow the traffic laws, and yet we get lumped in with selfish imbeciles who do what the heck they like when they are on a bicycle just so that they can arrive at work 10 seconds faster than they did yesterday. I'm sick and tired of all cyclists being lumped in together and labelled as irresponsible. It’s not true and it’s certainly unfair. Not all drivers are unskilled and ignorant and neither are all cyclists.

Yvonne, London,

Fantastic - but as has been mentioned, can we please fine cyclists too! For weaving through traffic, bumping up on to the pavement if they feel like it, ignoring turn signals and red lights..in fact, any of the things that the average London cyclist does while under the impression that they are Gods gift to the road and can do whatever they want.

A road user is a road user, and all should be subject to the same penalties for ignoring the rules and laws.

Marianne, London,

I'm sure that most accidents and injuries that cyclists suffer are caused by their own stupidity, lack of road sense and disregard for the highway code.

This system should be confined to properly designed and constructed cycle lanes, and cyclists should be fined for cycling on the pavement.

Scott Wylie, windsor, UK

"Can we also hope that they may be forced to actually pay for the roads they use through road tax instead of being subsidised by motorists?"

I also own a car. I'm willing to bet an awful lot of cyclists do. Road tax does not actually pay for the roads, by the way.

starling, Lancaster,

Colin/Terry/etc. - is it any wonder that cyclists often don't use facilities given that they are usually blocked with parked cars, are less than the width of a bike, and in other ways inadequate.

Would you ride in these for instance? :
http://www.camcycle.org.uk/newsletters/70/article8.html
Please let us know!

The irony... motorists complaining about cyclists not using facilities and ignoring the highway code.. Clearly such motorists should read the highway code, because it makes _no requirement_ to use such facilities.

Cyclists will use facilities once they are adequate for purpose. They retain every right to use the road, as the highway code allows.

Thomas, Cambridge, UK

Whenever pro-cycling measures are proposed, you always get people whinging about cyclists' bad behaviour! As a regular and law-abiding cyclist, I urge you not to tar every cyclist with the same brush! Unfortunately, as with everything, there are idiot cyclists out there, just as there are idiot car, van and taxi drivers - and yes, those idiot cyclists should be penalised too! In fact, in the City of London, I've seen many rogue cyclists being stopped by police, so progress is being made on that front.

As for paying road tax - apart from the fact that bicycles are a non-polluting mode of transport, which also cause negligible tarmac wear and tear - the majority of roads in the UK are not yet wide or safe enough for cyclists - so until that changes...

Sue, London,

I've just taken up cycling to work and feel I have to mount a defence here... first off - as a prior motorist I'd agree with the previous comments and feel this is just another way to drum up more cash.

In reference to cyclists jumping lights I must make two points not all do it & not all do it all the time! Ok so that's not much of a legal defence.

I admit to occasionally going through a red light - but never if there are pedestrians present. Usually I pull off just before the light changes to green, giving a couple of seconds head start on the cars, allowing me to get to a speed where one can stabilise.

Please remember we have potholes do deal with and being shaved by someone late for work in the morning is downright terrifying! 500 yeards up the road I usually pass these same stressed out motorists stuck at traffic lights....perhaps I should stay quiet about that!

We'll all get there eventually, please take it a little easier