A pedestrian’s actions led to the death of a 77 -year-old cyclist in Huntingdon.
Auriol Grey, 49, shouted towards Celia Ward, who fell into the path of a car in Huntingdon in 2020.
Grey, who was said to have resented the presence of the cyclist, was jailed for three years after a court convicted her of manslaughter.
In the light of that case, a CambsNews reader poses the question – and an answer – as to whether cyclists are allowed to cycle on pavements.
Peterborough Crown Court heard Grey “resented” the presence of the cyclist.
Why Grey got three years
Judge explains manslaughter sentence on pedestrian who killed cyclist
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Grey, of Bradbury Place, Huntingdon, was jailed for three years after being convicted of manslaughter.
Here’s what John Morris has to say.
In 2011, Minister of State for Transport, Robert Goodwill MP, restated the official line from the Department for Transport (DfT) that cyclists may ride on pavements – on condition they do so considerately.
This guidance has also been endorsed by the Association of Chief Police Officers.
“The introduction of the fixed penalty is not aimed at responsible cyclists who sometimes feel obliged to use the pavement out of fear of traffic and who show consideration to other pavement users when doing so.
“Chief police officers, who are responsible for enforcement, acknowledge that many cyclists, particularly children and young people, are afraid to cycle on the road, sensitivity and careful use of police discretion is required” said Robert Goodwill MP.
Huntingdon: Sign doubt raises question mark over manslaughter verdict
The key message from Hunts Walking & Cycling Group is that all road users should #ShareWithCare, this includes pedestrians, cyclists, and car drivers.
John Morris
Founder, Hunts Walking & Cycling Group – supporting active & sustainable travel in Huntingdonshire
http://tinyurl.com/HuntsWalkCycle
Footnote by Mr Morris:
- This guidance still applies to the new Highway Code. Source documents :
https://road.cc/content/news/108119-transport-minister-responsible-cyclists-can-ride-pavement
