Complaints Over Off-roaders Revving Up

By Ben Aulakh

Irresponsible off-road drivers who are potentially putting people’s lives in danger in Warwickshire towns and parks are being warned they could have their vehicles confiscated.

In recent months the number of complaints about people using off-road vehicles in dangerous and anti-social ways has dramatically increased.

In response Warwickshire Police and the County Council have produced documentary guidance that if they use their vehicles irresponsibly they could face prosecution.

The guidance advisers off-roaders that it’s illegal to ride an off-road vehicle in a park, public place or on common land.

It also states that 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

Police are also keen to stress that riding an off-road vehicle can be dangerous, and they are advising drivers to ride safely and within the law, and to be wearing protective clothing and equipment.

Cllr Richard Hobbs, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Protection said, “Off-road bikes, although popular with young people, are not toys and need to be used under strict conditions using appropriate safety equipment.

“The vehicles can be very noisy and their use in public places can be seen as threatening and anti-social so we want to bring the message home that this will not be tolerated in Warwickshire.”

Superintendent Martin McNevin, from Warwickshire Police added: “Anyone caught riding an off-road vehicle could be prosecuted under the Road Traffic Act.

They could face legal action including anti-social behaviour, harassment or tenancy proceedings, a fine, imprisonment, or having the vehicle seized and crushed.

Community safety teams are also alerting motorcycle and scooter owners to an increased number of thefts in Warwickshire each year and advising them to secure their vehicles safely.

For more information please visit www.safer-neighbourhoods.co.uk, or contact Warwickshire Police on 01926 415000 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            01926 415000      end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            01926 415000      end_of_the_skype_highlighting to report the misuse of off-road vehicles in your area.