This mistake could cost you £2,500–and that’s best the best-case scenario
Shared bicycles from the likes of Lime, Santander, and Beryl have revolutionised urban transport. They offer an affordable, eco-friendly way to get around, making them a favourite for city dwellers.
However, as the festive season gets into full swing, they also pose significant risks for those who may be tempted to cycle home after a few too many drinks.
Andy Shaw, Head of Personal Injury at Higgs LLP, highlights the dangers of cycling while under the influence, warning of serious consequences for both your health and your finances:
What are the risks of cycling under the influence?
“Most wouldn’t dream of drink-driving, however, the same sentiments are rarely applied to cycling. Research shows that more than a quarter of bicycle owners have cycled when drunk.
What are the physical risks to drink-cycling?
“Cycling under the influence is on the whole a terrible idea. Firstly, cycling in general presents risks with the number of preventable deaths whilst cycling increasing 47% in the last 10 years. When alcohol is thrown into the mix, risks increase, with cyclists not only having to worry about traffic and environmental risks but also falls and injuries caused by their intoxication. Research shows that cyclists under the influence are likely to be involved in bicycle accidents, with men being more affected than women.
“Alcohol causes a range of issues when cycling. Firstly is cycling performance, for example, a lack of ability to manage speed and balance—both crucial in cycling safety. However, alcohol also affects cognitive functions and can cause individuals to make riskier decisions.
“I’ve seen some truly terrible injuries from cycling accidents, including severe brain injuries requiring extensive neurorehabilitation, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy. Given the risks of cycling, it is deeply concerning that some individuals would choose to exacerbate those risks by cycling under the influence of alcohol, significantly increasing the likelihood of life-altering injuries.”
What are the legal risks to cycling while intoxicated
“From a legal standpoint, cycling while intoxicated can carry significant consequences, even when the accident was caused by someone else. If a cyclist is found to have been under the influence of alcohol, it could be argued that their impairment contributed to the accident and result in a reduction of their compensation claim. It’s a sobering reminder that cycling responsibly not only protects your safety but also safeguards your legal rights in the event of an accident.”
Why are shared bikes particularly dangerous?
“My primary concern with shared bikes in cities is the lack of helmet use among riders. While these bikes are undeniably convenient, few people carry a helmet 'just in case.' However, riding without a helmet significantly increases the risk of a fatal head injury. Studies suggest that helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by as much as 60%. This alarming correlation has led many experts, including leading trauma doctors, to advocate for mandatory helmet use by law.
“The Highway Code also encourages the use of cycling helmets. If a failure to wear a helmet could have prevented or reduced the severity of an injury, the courts may reduce the value of a compensation claim by up to 25%. This highlights the importance of helmet use—not just for safety, but also to protect your legal rights in the unfortunate event of an accident.”
Is drunk-cycling illegal?
“Drunk cycling is a criminal offence in the UK. Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is an offence to ride a bicycle on a road or public place while unfit through drink or drugs. Police can present evidence of intoxication or reckless behaviour, and Magistrates can convict offenders without the need for a breathalyser test, as cyclists are not legally required to comply with one.
“The penalties for dangerous cycling include fines ranging from £1,000 for careless cycling to as much as £2,500 for dangerous cycling. However, the consequences extend beyond criminal sanctions. If you are intoxicated and cause an accident, you could also face a civil claim for damages if another person is injured as a result of your actions.
“These risks—legal, financial, and physical—highlight the importance of cycling responsibly to protect both yourself and others.”
