Source: Driver Trainer

More cyclists are fined than drivers for red light offences in the City of London

 

Cyclists are being fined at ten times the rate of motorists for running red lights in the City of London, according to new figures from the City of London Police.

So far this year, 284 cyclists have received fixed penalty notices compared to just 25 drivers. Cyclists face a £50 fine, while drivers risk a £100 penalty and three licence points.

The enforcement data coincides with new research commissioned by e-bike firm Lime. It found 52% of London cyclists admit to running red lights, with 16% saying they do so regularly — despite 82% recognising the danger. Thirteen per cent were unaware it is illegal, and 71% support tougher penalties.

Cyclists Running Red Lights in London – Key Stats

  • 284 cyclists have received a fine for not stopping at traffic lights in the City of London so far in 2025
  • 25 drivers have received a fine for the same offence over the same period

Survey Findings on Cyclists’ Attitudes and Behaviour

  • 52% of London cyclists say they have run red lights
  • 16% of cyclists admit to running red lights regularly
  • 58% of cyclists who cycle daily say they run red lights – compared to 43% of those who cycle monthly
  • 13% of cyclists running red lights were unaware it is illegal
  • 82% of London cyclists recognise that running red lights is dangerous
  • 71% believe there should be tougher penalties for red-light offences

Cycling Volumes

1.33 million daily cycle journeys were recorded in London in 2024

Police and Lime launch parallel campaigns

In response, City of London Police have launched a Safer City Streets campaign. Alongside red light violations, the initiative also targets crimes such as mobile phone snatching by cyclists. Officers say their ‘Op Swipe’ has already reduced phone thefts by 30%. Free phone marking and ground-level warning plaques are also being deployed.

Tijs Broeke, chair of the City of London Police Authority Board, said: “This campaign is about action. We’re listening to concerns on issues like phone snatching, anti-social behaviour and reckless cycling, and taking clear, visible steps to tackle them.”

City of London Corporation’s Tom Sleigh added: “Red light running by a minority puts everyone at risk. It’s not just illegal – it’s anti-social. Safe cycling is non-negotiable.”

Lime is also launching its Respect the Red campaign, with safety messages at busy junctions. Policy director Hal Stevenson said: “When cyclists don’t feel safe, they take risks. The answer is better streets and responsible behaviour. Running red lights puts everyone at risk.”

Calls for better infrastructure and education

Cycling UK is working with Lime to create a training programme based on the research, focusing on Highway Code awareness. Director James Scott said:

“To maximise the benefits of cycling, we need continued investment in safe infrastructure and wider education for all road users.”

Pete Dyson, Bicycle Mayor of Bath, warned: “Red light running is dangerous, illegal and risks undermining public confidence and future investment in cycling.”

Cycling in the City of London has risen 50% in two years, with 1.33 million daily cycle journeys now recorded across the capital.

Sourced via Mail Online.