Boy, 14, dies in e-bike crash with car as parents warn ‘this is reason why they are banned from the roads’

Teenager’s tragic e-bike accident sparks call for road safety awareness

A 14-year-old boy tragically lost his life in a collision involving an electric motorbike and a car, prompting his family to urge caution for young riders. The incident occurred in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, last Thursday, highlighting the dangers of e-bikes on public roads.

Collision on Newbold Road

Finley Dawson, 14, was riding an electric motorbike when it struck a Kia Sportage at approximately 8:30pm on Newbold Road. The impact sent him and his 15-year-old pillion passenger tumbling onto the pavement, leaving both injured. While Finley was hospitalized, his injuries proved fatal, with his death confirmed the next day.

The families of both boys have issued a statement emphasizing the risks of e-bikes on roads, stating, ‘There is a reason these bikes are banned from the road, and devastatingly Finley has paid the ultimate price in losing his life.’

The driver of the Kia, identified as a witness, is helping authorities investigate the crash. No arrests have been made so far. Finley’s friend remains in hospital with serious but stable injuries, grappling with the loss of his companion.

Legal guidelines for e-bike use

In the UK, riders must be at least 16 and possess a valid driving licence to operate electric motorbikes on roads. However, pedal-assisted e-bikes are permitted for individuals aged 14 and older, provided their maximum power output does not exceed 250 watts. The incident has reignited debates about the safety regulations surrounding these vehicles.