Those that cause death by dangerous cycling could face up to 14 years in prison after the House of Commons backed a proposed change to the law.
A campaign to get the law changed has been led by Tory MP Iain Duncan Smith who said cyclists should be accountable for reckless behaviour.
The former Conservative leader had proposed an amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Sir Iain said his proposal was not “anti-cycling”.
“Quite the opposite, it’s about making sure this takes place in a safe and reasonable manner.”
His proposed amendment creates an offence of causing death or serious injury by dangerous, careless or inconsiderate cycling.
He said it would “achieve equal accountability” saying: “Just as drivers are held accountable for dangerous driving that results in death, cyclists I think should face similar consequences for reckless behaviour that leads to fatalities.”
Backing the change, Transport Secretary Mark Harper, said: “Most cyclists, like most drivers, are responsible and considerate.
“But it’s only right that the tiny minority who recklessly disregard others face the full weight of the law for doing so.”
During debate of the Criminal Justice Bill, ministers also agreed to calls to create a criminal offence for the practice known as “cuckooing” where a person takes over a vulnerable person’s home for illicit purposes.
MPs will continue to debate the Criminal Justice Bill, after which it will head to the House of Lords.
