Walsall Council is urging parents and carers to think carefully before purchasing off-road motorbikes or e-scooters as Christmas presents, highlighting the legal restrictions and safety risks associated with their use.
Off-road vehicles, including quad bikes and similar machines, are classed as motor vehicles. This means they must meet strict legal requirements to be used on public highways. Where they do not meet these standards, they can be seized and riders may face prosecution.
Even on private land, riders must have the landowner’s permission. However, they can still face legal consequences if the vehicles are used in a dangerous or careless manner.
Privately owned e-scooters also remain illegal to use on public roads, pavements and cycle lanes. Anyone found using them in public spaces risks having the vehicle confiscated.
The illegal use of off-road bikes, electric bikes, quad bikes and e-scooters continues to be an issue across the borough. Enforcement activity is carried out through joint operations, including Op Adhesion, which brings together specialist police teams, including off-road bike units and aerial support from the National Police Air Service.
Sergeant David Hadley, from the Problem Solving and Priorities Team in Walsall, said, “The anti-social use of off-road vehicles and e-scooters is not only dangerous but also illegal, and the risks to members of the public are very real.
“Parents may think they are giving their children a fun gift at Christmas but in reality they could be exposing them to serious harm and putting themselves at risk of prosecution. So please think twice before buying these vehicles as Christmas presents.”
Councillor Adam Hicken added, “We understand the excitement of buying a special Christmas gift, but parents need to be fully aware of the legal and safety implications of off-road bikes and e-scooters. When used illegally or irresponsibly, these vehicles put riders and the wider public at serious risk and cause significant distress in our communities.
“We’ve already had deaths and serious injuries in our area due to people riding off-road bikes recklessly. We will support police to track down and deal with offenders”.
Residents can report illegal use of off-road bikes by calling 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Concerns can also be reported to Walsall Council’s Community Protection Team by emailing communityprotection@walsall.gov.uk or calling 01922 653060.