The City of London Police has revealed a new approach to addressing cyclists who ignore red lights.  The force created a ‘Sin Bin’ at the side of the road where cyclists caught going through red lights were offered the opportunity to watch a road safety film instead of being fined, reports Bike Radar.

“The film will showcase the potentially devastating consequences of dangerous cycling, including a testimony from a cyclist who was struck by a bus, as well as highlighting the very real dangers faced by visually impaired and blind pedestrians when cyclists fail to stop at red lights,” City of London Police said in a press release.

Sergeant Stuart Ford, cycle team lead at City of London Police, said:

“We want cyclists to stop and take a moment to see the danger, listen to the experiences of those who have been affected, and think about the consequences of their behaviour. Going through a red light might save a few seconds, but it can change someone’s life forever.”

Sgt Ford added that this approach does not mean all cyclists that go through a red light will avoid a fine. 

“It is an additional tool for our officers, reflecting our approach of engagement, education and enforcement. The intervention will be incorporated into our patrols and operations, with officers using their discretion on when it is appropriate. Cyclists will not always be offered this option – where enforcement is necessary, we will enforce,” he said.

Tijs Broeke, Chair of the City of London Police Authority Board, added:

“People feel strongly about cyclists running red lights, and rightly so. It can put pedestrians at risk, particularly those who are blind or visually impaired.

“This initiative combines education with enforcement to make the Square Mile’s streets safer for everyone.

“It shows what locally accountable policing can deliver when it focuses on the issues that matter most to our communities.”

(Picture: Yay Images)