New 20mph roads are having no effect on “kamikaze cyclists” with major rule changes needed, according to criminal defence and road traffic lawyer Nick Freeman, known as Mr Loophole.

Brand new 20mph speed restrictions have been introduced in residential areas across the country in a bid to boost road safety.

Wales has taken things a step further with a widespread 20mph limit launched across restricted routes last year.

However, Mr Freeman stressed that the new 20mph restrictions are a “contradiction” with no restrictions placed on cyclists.

This has led to reports of “kamikaze cyclists” dangerously swerving around vehicles in what could be a major worry for motorists.

Nick said: “There is so much fanfare about how roads with 20mph limits will be so much safer. But how on earth can cyclists safely share road space with cars on 20mph roads when those on bikes don’t have to observe the limit?

“How can you have a speed limit which claims to protect all yet which doesn’t apply to certain road users? It is a contradiction in terms.

“Because of this disparity, we see legally compliant cars crawling along at 20mph while kamikaze cyclists dangerously undertake and overtake these vehicles with impunity – because there is no law to stop them from doing so.

“How on earth is this supposed to advance the cause of road safety?”

Road Traffic Regulations and the Highway Code refer to speed limits impacting motor vehicles and not all road users.

This means cyclists can legally travel as fast as they like with some experienced peddlers likely to exceed 20mph.

It comes as motorists are being increasingly targeted with data suggesting a major increase in enforcement.

Police forces across the UK dished out over 216,000 fines issued to drivers travelling between 20mph and 30mph in 2023.

This figure was quadruple the number of fines issued for the same offence back in 2018.

Nick has suggested there is an “urgent need” for fresh regulations to cut cycling speeds to match cars to prevent further safety concerns.

He added: “At present drivers in a 20mph zone are constantly having to focus on their speedometer which is a distraction in itself.

“But they also have the additional responsibility of looking out for kamikaze cyclists. It’s such a dangerous situation and one the Government either overlooked or didn’t consider when drafting legislation for bikes and cyclists on our roads.

“The number of accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians is increasing exponentially – which is why there is an urgent need to legislate to ensure cyclists obey the speed limit.

“Roads with a 20mph limit are already causing massive congestion whilst motorists are distracted by the constant need to brake. Allowing cyclists to ignore the limit simply makes a dangerous situation so much worse.”

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Post source: Express