I grapple daily with the growing number of cyclists on our roads who brazenly ignore the highway code, act unpleasantly towards other road users, and even flee the scene of accidents. As these cyclists currently remain unidentifiable, they manage to slide under the purview of the authorities. Given this troubling trend, it's high time we mandate that all bicycles should be registered, display an identification plate, and have insurance.

This isn't just about maintaining civility on the roads; it's about safety and accountability. In the UK, cases of cyclists injuring pedestrians increased by 5% in 2019 compared to 2018, according to Department for Transport’s annual report. This simply cannot be allowed to continue on an upwards trajectory.

Insurance also plays a significant role here. By requiring cyclists to hold insurance policies, victims of accidents involving bicycles would be able to seek compensation. This would also serve to deter reckless cycling behaviour.

The current lack of regulation around this issue allows for an unsettling level of unaccountability which puts everyone sharing our roads – whether motorists, cyclists or pedestrians – at risk. Our call is for the government to mandate the registration and insurance of all bicycles.

By doing so, we can foster a safer and more respectful road-using environment for all. Sign this petition if you agree that cyclists should bear the same responsibilities and accountability as other road users do.