The UK’s Department for Transport has launched a consultation to determine whether a new offence of causing death by dangerous or careless cycling should be introduced.

Steps are also being taken to protect cyclists and pedestrians who use the roads safely, including a push for higher standards for cycling and walking infrastructure across the UK.

The measures follow the launch earlier this summer of a UK-wide initiative to help police clamp down on dangerous drivers who pass cyclists too closely in a two-pronged approach to make the roads safer.

“In recent weeks we have announced a range of measures designed to protect vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians. These include new measures to combat close passing, training for driving instructors, better collision investigation and £100 million in new investment through the Safer Roads Fund,” said Cycling and Walking Minister Jesse Norman. “Now we are taking further steps. These include a consultation on new cycling offences, further work on national guidance on cycling and walking infrastructure, and improvements to the Highway Code.

“All these measures are designed to support the continued growth of cycling and walking, with all the benefits they bring to our communities, economy, environment and society.”

In 2016, three pedestrians were killed and 108 seriously injured after being involved in collisions with pedal cyclists.

The consultation is open for 12 weeks from 12 August 2018.

View the consultation