I'm an expert on bike insurance – and these are the stupid cycling mistakes that could land you in fines of up to £2,500, from using a phone to running a red light

For many, the New Year has ushered in resolutions for a healthier lifestyle, with cycling becoming a popular choice to improve fitness.

But amid the growing enthusiasm to kick off the pounds, some are overlooking the rules and regulations that could land them in hot water.

Mark Brown, owner of bicycle insurance company ProtectMyBicyclehas warned that even minor offenses 'could lead to large fines', which could 'deter people from cycling altogether'.

Here he outlines nine cycling offenses and the associated penalties.

Use of a mobile phone: fine up to £50

Mark says: 'Using a phone while cycling can distract you from the road, leading to potential accidents.' Although it is not illegal in Britain, Mark notes that 'it could be considered careless or inconsiderate cycling, carrying a possible fine of £50'.

Driving on sidewalks: fine up to £50

Mark explains: 'The Road Traffic Act 1988 states that cyclists must ride on the road unless there are specific exceptions, such as designated cycle lanes.

'The law also applies to children, but children under the age of ten cannot be prosecuted. But be careful in Scotland, where criminal liability starts at eight o'clock. This did not stop a police officer in Lincolnshire from confiscating a four-year-old's bicycle in 2015.'

Driving through pedestrian areas: fine up to £1,100

Although many cyclists avoid obvious pedestrian areas, Mark says: 'Some smaller, less marked areas can catch the eye of cyclists.

'Fines usually range from £50 to £100. However, a female cyclist was ordered to pay more than £1,100 in fines and costs for cycling through Grimsby town center in June last year.'

High power e-bikes – fine up to £200

According to Mark, to be allowed on the road, e-bikes must have 'a set of working pedals, an electric motor of less than 250 watts and a maximum speed of 25 km/h'. If the vehicle exceeds these limits, he says, you'll need a driver's license and insurance when “entering motor vehicle territory.”

Mark added: 'Driving without insurance is the biggest financial blow, with on-the-spot fines of up to £200 and possible prosecution leading to higher penalties.'

While many will avoid riding through obvious pedestrian zones, Mark warns that 'smaller' and 'less marked' areas can catch cyclists off guard

Carrying too many passengers: fine up to £50

Mark explains that overload can 'affect the stability and handling of the bicycle, increasing the risk of accidents'.

Fdefective to display a front and rear light – fine up to £5

Mark says: 'Increasing your visibility by showing front and rear lights, especially during poor weather conditions or at night, is an essential step in preventing accidents.'

Ignoring 'no cycling' signs – fine up to £30

The expert explains that 'no cycling' signs will be placed in specific areas where cycling 'may pose a safety risk, such as busy pedestrian zones'. He says: 'Ignoring these signals is not only against the law, but also disregards the safety and convenience of others.'

Running a red light: fine up to £50

According to Mark: 'Jumping through red lights, whether on a bicycle or another vehicle, is a serious violation of the traffic rules. For the safety of everyone on the road, it is crucial to obey the traffic lights.'

Careless or furious cycling – fine up to £2,500

Mark says these offenses include 'a range of reckless behaviour, from weaving through traffic to speeding'. He adds: 'Fines can reach up to £1,000 for careless cycling and as much as £2,500 plus potential points on your driving license for angry cycling. Reckless cycling can even land you in jail, depending on the severity.”

For more information visit protectionmybike.nl.