Parents warned over ‘off-road bikes’
Warwickshire County Council’s Community Safety Team is asking parents to consider the risks of giving small off-road vehicles as Christmas presents.
Following a recent rise in the use of quad-bikes, electric scooters, ‘go-peds’ and trial bikes, the Community Safety Team and Warwickshire Police have created a guide about the legalities of owning and riding one.
A few important things to remember if you are intending to buy an off-road vehicle for your children include:
* It is illegal to ride an off-road vehicle in a park, public place of on common land
* Unless the vehicle is specifically made for road use, you can only ride it on private land with the land owners permission
* The Road Traffic Act can be applied if off-road vehicles are used in public places, in an anti-social way or driven carelessly
* Any vehicle used on the road will need a driving licence/test certificate (and certificate of basic training for off-road bikes), road fund licence/tax disc, insurance and MOT certificate.
* Riding an off-road vehicle can be dangerous, ensure that you know how to ride safely and within the law
* The rider must be wearing appropriate and legal protective clothing and equipment
Cllr Richard Hobbs, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Protection, said: “Parents need to be aware that off-road bikes are not toys and need to be used under strict conditions, using appropriate safety equipment.
“It is also important to stress that using these vehicles in an anti-social way is an offence and will not be tolerated in Warwickshire.”
David Whitehouse, head of Community Protection at Warwickshire Police said: “It can be very tempting to take these bikes out on to the road or on to the pavement, but to do so without complying with the law could lead to prosecution or injury to the rider or to a pedestrian.
“People should also be aware that inappropriate use can lead to excessive noise and nuisance to other members of the community. We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun, but parents, carers and riders must ensure these bikes are driven appropriately.
“Reputable shopkeepers will provide advice about where and how to ride the bikes safely and make sure you only use them on private land, where you have been given permission by the owner to ride."