...MINI MOTORBIKES AND THE LAW...

In its ongoing efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour, Slough Borough Council has issued an information leaflet, in consultation with Thames Valley Police, regarding the use of mini-motos, go-peds, quad bikes, electric and petrol driven scooters, and off road motorbikes.

WCPC often receive complaints about these vehicles on and around the Wexham Court Estate, so this guidance leaflet is most welcomed.  The content of the document (in brief) is as follows:

TOGETHER - TACKLING ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR

OWN ONE?

RIDE ONE?

SUFFER ONE?

If you are suffering because of inappropriate use of mini-motos, go-peds, quad bikes, electric and petrol driven scooters, or off road motorbikes, you can report this to the police on 08458 505 505 or to the Anti Social Behaviour ("It's Your Call") hotline on 0845 605 2222.  If it is a problem to us, please make it your business to help us fight it.

If you have an interest in motorcycle sport and you wish to ride legally please contact the governing body of the sport (Autocycle Union (A.C.U.) Ltd., British Motorcycle Sport & Leisure, ACU House, Wood Street, Rugby, CV21 2YX.  Tel: 01788 566400.  Web: www.acu.org.uk).  For any further enquiries please contact Community Safety on 01753 477356.

This leaflet provides some guidance and outlines the legal position for those who have one of these vehicles, or would like to buy one, and for those suffering their misuse.  Although mini-motos are marketed as toys, they can reach speeds of up to 60mph and there have already been fatalities and serious injuries from accidents.  It is important that everyone is aware of how to own one correctly and how to report inappropriate use.

WHERE CAN MINI-MOTOS, GO-PEDS, QUAD BIKES, ELECTRIC AND PETROL DRIVEN SCOOTERS BE USED?

• If these vehicles are not registered for the road they can only be used legally on private land with the direct permission of the land owner.

• They CANNOT be used on a footpath or cycle route under any circumstances.

• If the vehicles are licensed, taxed and insured for use on public roads, riders must be licensed, aged 16 or over, and wearing an approved crash helmet.

• Any child using these vehicles should be supervised by a responsible adult to ensure its safe use.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU OR SOMEONE ELSE IS USING THESE VEHICLES INCORRECTLY?

• Motorised vehicles, when ridden illegally or in a careless or anti-social manner (that is causing or likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress) may be seized by the Police under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002.

• Offenders can be subject to prosecution and a fine of £1,000.

• An £80 penalty notice for Disorder, for behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress can also be given.

• Riding these vehicles illegally can also lead to prosecution under road traffic legislation.  You could be fined and receive points on your license.

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