Cycling Vigilante Criticized for Following Police Car Through Traffic

A cycling vigilante, identified as Liberal Democrat councilor Adrian Chapmanlaw, has drawn criticism for using a police car's passage to navigate through traffic congestion. The incident occurred in Bournemouth, England, where Chapmanlaw, known for his online presence documenting perceived traffic violations, posted a video of himself following an emergency vehicle.

Chapmanlaw was cycling when a police car, responding to a 999 call, approached from behind. Like other motorists, Chapmanlaw pulled to the side to allow the emergency vehicle to pass. However, after the police car cleared the way, Chapmanlaw proceeded to cycle through the gap created in the traffic. He then filmed himself overtaking and undertaking stationary vehicles to catch up with the police car.

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Dorset Safer Roads, Chapmanlaw defended his actions, stating, "When the police part the seas for better filtering. It is always busy here, there's no cycle lane and I always end up filtering through the queue." He argued that while such behavior might be illegal in a car, it is legal for a bicycle, especially as filtering is permitted. He added that the police vehicle "just made it easier for me."

However, Home Office guidance suggests that while not explicitly illegal to cycle behind a police car on an emergency call, it can lead to prosecution for careless or dangerous cycling if it puts others at risk. Many road users and campaign groups have condemned his actions. A spokesperson for Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) & Dorset Motorists called his behavior "complete arrogance" and highlighted the potential danger to other drivers who might not anticipate a cyclist coming up on their inside.

This is not the first time Chapmanlaw has faced backlash for his cycling advocacy. He has a reputation for confronting drivers over issues such as using mobile phones while driving, parking violations, and not providing adequate space when overtaking. He has reported nearly 70 drivers to the police for phone use since 2023 through the police's Operation Snap initiative. Complaints have been lodged with the BCP Council regarding his conduct, but they have reportedly been dismissed as he was acting in his personal time.