Traffic

Traffic

On this month’s traffic segment Garda Derek Cloughley was joined by Garda Paul Burke to highlight the illegal use of scramblers and quad bikes, and the high risk summer period for motorcyclists. Crimecall went on location with Garda Burke who explains the dangers associated with scramblers and quads.

Drivers of scramblers and quads are in breach of the road traffic act when they are driven on a public road unless they are fit for road use, registered, taxed and insured. Often the driver is unlicensed and typically too young to hold a licence. The manner in which these bikes are driven in public places has endangered not just the rider but other road users, including pedestrians, cyclist and other drivers and all too often equates to anti-social behaviour.

Garda Burke spoke of his experiences in dealing with this problem, by seizing these bikes and of having to deal with offenders and their parents. The age range he has encountered is as young as 6 to 19 years of age. Non-compliance of the regulations will mean your bike or scrambler will be seized followed by prosecution.

Garda Burke spoke of his own experience as an avid motorcyclist both on the road and as an avid motocross driver. He emphasised the safe and correct way to enjoy the sport by using a designated track, and wearing the correct protective body clothing, helmet and boots.