Half of cyclists break law in Paris

ABOUT half of cyclists in Paris break the law, according to Paris traffic chief Gildas Robert.

Going through red lights is the most common offence. Others turn without signalling, use their phones while cycling or cycle while drunk.

As a result, the number of fines has increased steeply – up from 4,000 in 2004 to 14,000 last year.

Authorities in Paris have responded to the problem, by relaxing many laws for cyclists.

Shortly they are to be allowed to turn right at certain junctions even when the lights are red. Also, by next summer 67 30mph zones will allow bikes to travel in the opposite direction to traffic.

The number of bikes in Paris has doubled since 2001, boosted by the free hire Velib' scheme.

Last year there were 635 accidents involving cyclists. Most were caused by motorists not seeing cyclists and, for example, opening doors in their path. There were five deaths last year, mainly due to lorries’ blind spots when turning right.