Jul 29 - Motorbike Footrests Safety Campaign Launched
Following the launch of the Government’s successful motorcycle helmet campaign, the Ministry of Transport, Traffic and Technical Services has today launched a new campaign to make people more aware of the dangers faced by motorcycle pillion riders, particularly young children, who either do not use or cannot reach footrests.
As from today, it will be illegal for a motorbike pillion rider to travel without his/her feet resting on the bike’s footrests. Moreover, every pillion passenger carried on a motorcycle must sit astride and face forward.
Previous legislation only made provision for adequate installation of footrests on a motorcycle designed to carry pillion riders - no reference was made to ensure that pillion riders were actually required to use them, or, indeed, even reach the footrests.
For the purpose of the legislative amendments, the term ‘motorcycle’ will now also include a moped and any such offence contrary to the amended regulations will carry a fine at level 2 on the standard scale. This means that, upon conviction, an offender is liable to be ordered to pay a fine of up to £400.
Motorbike owners can seek advice on any modifications they need to make in order to extend their footrests from the Motor Vehicle Test Centre at Eastern Beach Road.
The Minister for Transport, Traffic and Technical Services, Paul Balban, said:
“I welcome the introduction of these amendments to the legislation which will no doubt go a long way in ensuring that pillion passengers, particularly young children, are carried as safely as possible on motorcycles and mopeds in future.”
(Pic Below: Minister Balban and RGP Inspector Brian Finlayson)
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