1 week Ago
On Sunday a silver BMW vehicle and the scrambler collided in the area of Cregagh Court off the main Cregagh Road shortly before 5pm. A man in his 20s was taken to hospital by ambulance for treatment to head, shoulder and foot injuries. Police confirmed they are still investigating the incident but hit out at the use of the vehicles and young people using them without taking any appropriate safety measures.
PSNI Inspector Moutray said: “We know that the dangerous driving of scramblers and other off-road bikes is an issue of real concern in our community. “We want to reassure you that it's one we are taking extremely seriously and that we recognise the significant safety issues that these vehicles can pose. “Yesterday, Sunday 27th April, we attended a report of a road traffic collision which involved a scrambler.
The rider sustained serious injuries. “Our enquiries into the circumstances are ongoing.” Inspector Moutray continued: “If you own or use a scrambler, you should be aware that the majority are restricted to off-road use only.
This does not mean that they can be driven anywhere “off-road”. “These vehicles should only be driven on private land where the landowner has given permission and should not be driven on pavements, roads, public property or parks. “All too often, we see these bikes being ridden without any protective equipment.
“After yesterday’s collision, our officers saw several other scramblers in the immediate area, being ridden by young people with no helmets. We tracked them with the assistance of our colleagues in Air Support Unit, and continue to make enquiries within the community as to the identity of those involved.” In his message, the PSNI man also urged parents and guardians to consider the risks when they purchase these vehicles for their young people.
He added: “Think before you buy these bikes. Insurance and safety equipment regulations must be complied with in order to drive these vehicles legally. “We will take a zero-tolerance approach to anyone caught in a residential area on one of these bikes.
Anyone riding a scrambler on a public road risks not only losing their bike, but also ending up in court.” Inspector Moutray asked east Belfast residents for their help: “We would encourage you to report any incidents of these vehicles being driven in built-up areas. Give us the information so that we can take measures to deal with those in our community who drive these vehicles contrary to legislation.
“Please help us to make our roads, residential areas and parks safer for everyone.”.
