Boy, 14, dies in e-bike crash with car as parents warn ‘this is reason why they are banned from the roads’
Boy, 14, dies in e-bike crash with car as parents warn ‘this is reason why they are banned from the roads’
A tragic incident in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, has left parents of Finley Dawson, 14, urging caution after he lost his life in a collision involving an electric motorbike and a car. The accident occurred on Newbold Road last Thursday at approximately 8:30pm, when Finley was riding the e-bike with his 15-year-old pillion passenger.
Following the crash, both boys were thrown from the vehicle and landed on the road. Finley was transported to the hospital, but his injuries were deemed ‘non-survivable,’ resulting in his death the next day. His friend remains in critical but stable condition at the same facility.
“The quick thrill of riding an electric bike on the road isn’t worth the cost of a life,” the parents said.
Police investigation underway
Derbyshire police confirmed the driver of the Kia Sportage is acting as a witness and assisting with inquiries. No arrests have been made so far, though the investigation continues.
Families highlight e-bike risks
In a joint statement, the families emphasized the dangers of e-bikes on roads. “There is a reason these bikes are banned from the road, and devastatingly Finley has paid the ultimate price in losing his life,” they added.
The statement also noted that while the excitement of riding an e-bike on the road may seem thrilling, it can lead to fatal outcomes. The families stressed the importance of adhering to UK regulations, which require riders to be at least 16 and hold a valid license to operate electric motorbikes on public roads.
Legal guidelines for e-bike use
Electric bicycles with pedals can be ridden by individuals aged 14 or older on roads and cycle paths, provided their continuous rated power output does not exceed 250 watts. This distinction underscores the varying levels of risk associated with different types of electric vehicles.
