While you’re likely aware of the rules around drink driving in the UK, you might not be as aware of cycling rules. So, is it illegal to ride a bike drunk? While bicycles don’t have engines and cyclists don’t require licences, riding your bike in the UK comes with its own set of rules and regulations.
In this helpful guide, we’ll run you through the rules about bikes and booze, as well as help you understand the dangers associated with them. And if the worst has happened and you’ve been injured in an accident involving a drunk, careless cyclist, we’ll also let you know your rights and how to make a compensation claim.
Is cycling under the influence of alcohol illegal in the UK?
Under Section 30 of the Road Traffic Act 1998, cycling under the influence of alcohol is illegal in the UK. This legislation states that you cannot ride a bike on the road or in any public place if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you choose to ignore these rules, you could face criminal charges, similar to when driving under the influence.
Unlike drivers, cyclists are not subjected to blood alcohol limits, which means you won’t be breathalysed if pulled over by the police. However, the police have the backing of the law to decide whether or not you can continue riding, if they believe you’re drunk or under the influence of drugs. If you ignore their request, you could be penalised.
While it is not illegal to ride a bike under the influence on your private property, it is still discouraged as you may harm yourself, your property, or others around you.
What penalties can you face for drunk cycling?
While you won’t receive penalty points on your driving licence, you can still face serious legal penalties as a drunk cyclist. If you’ve been caught riding a bicycle while under the influence, you could face:
- Fines of up to £1,000 for cycling under the influence
- Fines of up to £2,500 for dangerous cycling
- Criminal charges if the incident led to injury or property damage
How does drunk cycling put others at risk?
Cycling while drunk might seem harmless at the time, however, a study by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism in the US found that even a small amount of alcohol can impair your motor skills and cognitive functions. This increases the likelihood of accidents, so while your judgement is impaired by alcohol, there are all sorts of dangers that could occur:
Risks to pedestrians
If you are drunk, you might struggle to keep control of your bike while cycling. If you lose control, you could risk colliding with a pedestrian. Even a clip at high speed could cause a pedestrian accident.
Risks to other cyclists
If you are intoxicated in shared cycle lanes or on a busy cycling route, you’ll be a threat to fellow riders. Sudden swerves, poor decision-making or delayed reactions can lead to cycling accidents.
Risks to drivers
Even though drivers have more protection than cyclists on the road, they can still be at risk of drunk cyclists. You might suddenly swerve into the road, causing a knock-on effect that causes a road traffic accident.
What should you do if you’re injured by a drunk cyclist?
If you’ve been unlucky enough to be injured in a drunken cycling incident, you should know the steps to take to protect your health and rights to compensation:
- Report it — Inform the authorities as soon as possible. A police report will serve as crucial evidence.
- Gather evidence — Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries and any damage to your property. Keep any witness statements and check for nearby CCTV footage.
- Seek medical attention — Even if your cycling accident injuries seem minor, you need to get a full medical assessment from your GP or at the hospital.
- Get in touch — Our experts at Express Solicitors will assess your case and advise on your next steps.
How Express Solicitors can help you claim compensation
If you’ve been involved in a cycling accident caused by a drunk rider, no matter how small or severe your injury, you might be entitled to compensation. Our experienced legal team will guide you through every step of the claim process, ensuring you receive the justice you deserve. Ready to take the next step? Get in touch and we can kick off your case in a secure and confidential way. Call us on 0161 904 4661 or Start your claim online
Frequently asked questions
Can cyclists lose their driving licence for cycling drunk?
No, if you cycle drunk, you will not receive points on your driving licence. However, if your actions result in a serious accident or criminal charges, the courts may take this into account when considering your overall fitness to drive.
What if the drunk cyclist has no insurance?
Many cyclists do not carry insurance, but you may still be able to claim compensation through alternative legal routes. A solicitor can advise on your options based on the circumstances of your case.
Can I claim if the cyclist wasn’t charged by the police?
Personal injury claims are civil cases, which means that liability can be established independently of any criminal charges. Even if the cyclist was not prosecuted, you may still be entitled to compensation.