An e-scooter in Norwich
Norfolk Police are one of many forces who have spent the last few weeks looking to improve the safety of people riding on two wheels.
The country-wide ‘2 Wheels’ campaign, co-ordinated by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), culminated on 17 April.
In Norfolk, officers aimed to improve driver and rider behaviour, with an increased focus on enforcement and education.
Police-led operations, carried out in marked and unmarked cars, focused on the safety of motorcyclists and cyclists, while explaining the dangers of not having the correct skills, knowledge and personal protection equipment.
There was also a focus on e-scooters across the county – with officers keen to highlight their current legal status.
Under UK law, a person can legally buy an e-scooter, but cannot ride it on any public road, cycle lane or pavement. The only place it can be used is on private land.
Additionally, officers took enforcement action, especially where there was evidence of anti-social behaviour, other riding offences, persistent use or wider criminality.
They also visited retailers to advise staff of the legal requirements and ask them to remind customers of the risk of potential enforcement action if they are used inappropriately.
Chief inspector Jon Chapman, head of the Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Armed Policing Team, said: “The ultimate aim of both campaigns is to keep people safe on our roads and footpaths.
“Our roads should be a safe space for everyone to use, but those on ‘two wheels’ are typically known as vulnerable users and are at greater risk of coming to harm in a collision, despite only accounting for a relatively small percentage of overall journeys that are made.
“The focus of this campaign is to ensure we raise awareness of driver/rider behaviour to ensure that those on two wheels are safe on our roads. This means maximising safety opportunities by wearing appropriate personal protection clothing and riding in a safe and responsible manner.
“There is also a responsibility on motorists to ensure they remain vigilant, are driving with care and leave plenty of space when overtaking.”
Comment on this story