## Video Summary This video delves into the recent controversy surrounding cyclists observed riding at nearly 40 miles an hour in a 30-mile-an-hour limit, as captured in police footage. Barrister Daniel Shan Smith explains that while cyclists are not subject to the same speed limits as motor vehicles, they must adhere to road signs and traffic signals. The debate sparked on social media surrounding the legality of cyclists riding at high speeds. The Highway Code and the Road Traffic Regulation Act clarify that speed limits primarily apply to motor vehicles, not cyclists. Hence, cyclists are technically allowed to ride at higher speeds unless they are endangering others or riding carelessly. The video also highlights that local bylaws may impose specific speed limits for cyclists in certain areas, which must be observed. Ultimately, safety should remain paramount for all cyclists. This informative discussion aims to clear up misconceptions about cycling speed regulations and encourage responsible riding. ## Transcript Many people are complaining about cyclists caught riding at almost 40 miles an hour in a 30-mile-an-hour limit, as seen in police video footage that has been viewed almost two million times. This has sparked quite the debate in the comments section on X (formerly Twitter), with many discussing whether cyclists should comply with speed limits. Some professionals have also found themselves on the wrong side of this issue. So, here I am to explain the situation. But first, if you are new to my channel, I’m Daniel Shan Smith, a barrister in England and Wales. I enjoy helping you understand the law, so I would appreciate it if you could hit that like button and subscribe at any point you find this video useful. Thank you for doing that; I appreciate it. Now, let's move on to the video. The police stated that they pulled these cyclists over for a chat. The Devon and Cornwall police’s Roads Policing Team advised cyclists to be mindful of their speeds and how this may affect them in the event of a collision. This group was observed travelling at nearly 40 miles an hour in a 30-mile-an-hour restricted zone. The police car following them confirmed their speed at around 39 miles per hour. Naturally, this has led to a significant debate on X regarding whether cyclists must comply with speed limits, which primarily apply to motor vehicles. The short answer is no; cyclists do not have to adhere to speed limits in the same way that motor vehicles do. While cyclists must comply with road signs and traffic signals, the legal framework regarding speed limits, which emerged in the early 20th century, does not include cyclists. According to Rule 124 of the Highway Code, cyclists are not listed among the vehicles subject to specific speed limits. Additionally, the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 stipulates that speed regulations only apply to motor vehicles, further exempting cyclists. So, what about cyclists riding too fast? They are not necessarily breaking any laws simply by riding at high speeds, which is why it was placed in quotes when referred to in the first place. It's important to understand that unless they are riding carelessly, inconsiderately, or dangerously, they are technically within their rights to ride at those speeds. The Road Traffic Act 1988 defines various levels of cycling offences. 'Careless cycling' occurs if a person rides without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for others. Conversely, 'dangerous cycling' refers to riding in a manner that falls far below what is expected of a competent cyclist, potentially causing injury or property damage. 'Wanton and furious cycling' includes acts resulting in injury or damage. Local bylaws can set speed limits for cyclists—Richmond Park, for example, has a speed limit of 20 miles an hour, which applies to both vehicles and cyclists. Even in areas without clear speed limits, local bylaws may enforce specific rules, meaning cyclists must comply. I am not suggesting that cyclists should disregard safety by riding at any speed they like. Cyclists should always consider their safety and the safety of others. The cyclists caught on video are not necessarily doing anything wrong unless they are riding carelessly. From what I saw, they were riding fairly safely, albeit at a high speed. The police likely stopped them to offer a cautionary warning about the implications of riding at such speeds in the event of a collision. This discussion should clarify the matter and help dispel any misunderstandings regarding cyclists' speed regulations. As a final note, while cyclists can be penalised for riding under the influence, it won’t affect their driving license, and they are not required to submit to breath tests. More on that in another video. Make sure to subscribe! \[Music\]