TV exclusive: Family of cyclist who died call for change in law

The family of a cyclist who died when he was knocked off his bike and into the path of a van are calling for a change in the law to protect cyclists.

It is almost a year since Sam Boulton was killed outside Leicester’s train station. It happened on his 26th birthday when he was hit by the door of a taxi.

In June this year, taxi driver Farook Bhikhu was fined for permitting the opening of a vehicle door as to injure or endanger a person.

Sam’s father Jeff believes a new offence should be introduced for causing serious injury or death by the offence known as ‘car dooring’.

In their first television interview, Jeff and his younger son Joe spoke exclusively to ITV News Central reporter Rajiv Popat:

Currently, the law states that if you open a door and injure someone, you are liable to a fine for up to £1,000.

Sam’s dad, Jeff, said this needs to change as it does not take into account if someone is killed or seriously injured:

Despite what happened, Sam's family want to focus on the positives. Sam was a keen painter, and his family believe his memory lives on through his art work.

Some paintings have already been sold, but his family want to keep most of the art work within the family.

At the end of this month, there will also be a cyclist rally as a tribute to Sam.