Irish bicycle users fined 244 times in first two months of on-the-spot fines

People using bicycles have been fined 244 times in first two months of on-the-spot fines or “Fixed Charge Notices” for cycling related offenses.
Out of the 244 caught and fined: 144 were fined for proceeding past traffic lights / cycle traffic lights when the red lamp is illuminated; 44 were fined for no front lamp or rear lamp lit during lighting-up hours on a pedal cycle; 37 were caught for “driving a pedal cycle without reasonable consideration”; and 19 were fined for proceeding into a pedestrianised street or area (which should not include footpaths).

The fined were issued between July 31 up to the end of September.

The transport minister Paschal Donohoe TD, said in a statement today: “Unsurprisingly, most fines have been issued for the offence of breaking a red light (144), with failure to have appropriate lighting on a bike accounting for the next highest number of fines at 44.”

He added: “This measure was introduced with a view to promoting safe cycling practices and changing poor cycling behaviour and preventing needless collisions and injury on our roads. Last year, 13 cyclists were killed in Ireland. I want to see that number reduced and a greater emphasis put on cycling road safety. I introduced this measure with a view to highlighting the dangers that exist for cyclists and encouraging them to take their safety more seriously.

Minister Donohoe said: “The majority of cyclists obey the rules of the road when out on their bikes, however, there are some who put themselves and others at risk by disregarding the law. I would like to commend An Garda Síochána for the work they are doing in this area and for reinforcing the message that cyclists, as vulnerable road users, have a responsibility to themselves and others when out on the roads.”

He said by allowing for fines for cycling offenses to be issued in place of direct summonses to court, court time is also freed up.