In response to increased cycling among its population, Australia has introduced tough new measures for cyclists that kill or seriously injure pedestrians.
Australian road minister Tim Pallas said “Cycling is becoming a legitimate form of transport. But with (that) comes increased responsibility.  This Government will come down hard on bad behavior because there is a real consequence.
Hard is right.  A cyclist that has demonstrated dangerous, careless or reckless behavior (that has presumably caused physical harm) may now get up to 5 years in jail or a $68,000 fine.  Ouch!  Full story here here video, or hit ‘more’ to see the full list of penalties…
- 284 or seven days’ prison if property is damaged by a cyclist and the rider does not immediately stop and offer assistance
- $13,610 or prison for 12 months, or both, for dangerous riding
- $681 for careless riding
- $68,052 or five years in prison if a person is killed or seriously injured by a cyclist and the rider does not immediately stop and offer assistance
Under previous bicycle laws, cyclists could only be fined up to $567 for riding in a dangerous, careless or reckless manner.
