On your bike Mr Prodi
Wednesday, 7 August 2002
East Midlands Conservative Euro-MP Roger Helmer has criticised proposed European Union legislation that would make drivers responsible for all accidents involving cyclists, even when the cyclist was at fault.
The plan was set out recently in a proposed EU directive on car insurance. The European Commission wants motorists to take out insurance for injuries suffered by cyclists and pedestrians, even when the driver is not to blame.
In some EU countries, cyclists and pedestrians are covered by "no fault" policies which enables them to receive a payment for personal injury even if the driver is not at fault. In Britain, cyclists and pedestrians are not covered by the driver’s insurance unless they can prove negligence.
The RAC has claimed that the EU proposals would result in an increase of 10% or about £50 for car insurance.
Euro-MP Roger Helmer is a keen cyclist himself and has competed in three triathlons, including one in Singapore in 1994. He said:
"I think these EU proposals are ridiculous.
"It is an affront to natural justice that drivers should take the blame regardless of who is responsible. And the inevitable result would be an increased cost for motor insurance."
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