02/08/2006
Mini-motos face the crush
Reckless drivers of mini-motorbikes who disrupt and damage communities could receive points on their licence, face a driving ban, a fine or even have their vehicles crushed under new guidance published on Wednesday.
It is illegal to ride unregistered mini-motos and similar off-roading vehicles on pavements, in parks and on public highways.
The guidance warns that, as well as the prospect of having their vehicle crushed, offenders can expect to receive points on their licenses, including children not old enough to currently hold one, which could lead to problems getting insurance when they pass their driving test.
Speaking ahead of a visit to Manchester, Home Secretary John Reid stressed that those misusing mini-motos could have them seized and crushed by the police. He said: "Misuse of mini-motos is dangerous and is causing misery in too many of our local communities. We are working with police and local partners to promote safe and sensible use. These vehicles are not toys and I want to see irresponsible drivers stopped and, if necessary, their bikes crushed.
The Motor Cycle Industry Association estimates that sales of mini-moto-type vehicles have increased from 10,000 in 2002 to an estimated 100,000 in 2005, although police believe that there could be more in circulation.
Police have received thousands of complaints about the vehicles over the past year.
Northumbria police received 3,000 complaints on off-road bike issues in the last year, while Manchester has identified it as one of its top five priorities in anti-social behaviour crackdown.
Medway Basic Command Unit of Kent Police also received 4,000 calls relating to the misuse of mini-motos in the last year. They seized 15 bikes in 4 days at the end of May.
The government has given £200,000 to 28 areas across England and Wales in order to help enforce laws on mini-motos.
Louise Casey, government co-ordinator for Respect, said: "Everyone has the right to enjoy living in their communities in peace and safety, without the fear of being mown down or being forced to listen to the screech of these mini-bikes.
"Parents should also be aware of the penalties their child faces for misuse and think twice before allowing them to have one."
(KMcA)
It is illegal to ride unregistered mini-motos and similar off-roading vehicles on pavements, in parks and on public highways.
The guidance warns that, as well as the prospect of having their vehicle crushed, offenders can expect to receive points on their licenses, including children not old enough to currently hold one, which could lead to problems getting insurance when they pass their driving test.
Speaking ahead of a visit to Manchester, Home Secretary John Reid stressed that those misusing mini-motos could have them seized and crushed by the police. He said: "Misuse of mini-motos is dangerous and is causing misery in too many of our local communities. We are working with police and local partners to promote safe and sensible use. These vehicles are not toys and I want to see irresponsible drivers stopped and, if necessary, their bikes crushed.
The Motor Cycle Industry Association estimates that sales of mini-moto-type vehicles have increased from 10,000 in 2002 to an estimated 100,000 in 2005, although police believe that there could be more in circulation.
Police have received thousands of complaints about the vehicles over the past year.
Northumbria police received 3,000 complaints on off-road bike issues in the last year, while Manchester has identified it as one of its top five priorities in anti-social behaviour crackdown.
Medway Basic Command Unit of Kent Police also received 4,000 calls relating to the misuse of mini-motos in the last year. They seized 15 bikes in 4 days at the end of May.
The government has given £200,000 to 28 areas across England and Wales in order to help enforce laws on mini-motos.
Louise Casey, government co-ordinator for Respect, said: "Everyone has the right to enjoy living in their communities in peace and safety, without the fear of being mown down or being forced to listen to the screech of these mini-bikes.
"Parents should also be aware of the penalties their child faces for misuse and think twice before allowing them to have one."
(KMcA)
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