UK Plans Life Sentences for Cyclists Who Kill Pedestrians

The UK government is set to introduce new legislation in England and Wales that would allow life imprisonment for cyclists who kill pedestrians by dangerous cycling, bringing penalties in line with those for dangerous driving. This move updates outdated Victorian-era laws, which previously limited punishment to a maximum two-year jail term under charges like 'wanton and furious riding.' The amendments, part of the Crime and Policing Bill, are a response to longstanding campaigns from victims' families, notably Matt Briggs, whose wife was killed by a cyclist in 2016. While the changes have been welcomed by campaigners seeking justice and modernized laws, some cycling advocates have expressed concern that harsh penalties could discourage cycling overall. The government maintains that these reforms target only a small minority who act recklessly, emphasizing a priority on road safety while also promising support for cycling as part of broader transport goals.