Teenage rider of an illegal e-dirt bike has bike impounded and receives $1,300 in fines after trying to elude police.
A member of the Maple Ridge RCMP Road Safety Target Team in an unmarked police vehicle attempted to stop the driver after spotting the bike doing wheelies and passing vehicles at an estimated speed of 70 km/h in the 24800 block of 100 Avenue on the June 13-14 weekend.
The 16-year-old driver of the vehicle drove down a dead-end street and when the officer activated his emergency lights and siren to stop the teen, the rider sped up and attempted to drive off the road onto an off-road trail.
However, the rider crashed the bike into a grassy ditch and was taken into custody by the officer.
Police said no injuries were sustained and the rider declined emergency services.
When the youth’s parent arrived on the scene, they were charged with multiple motor vehicle violations including: driving without due care, failing to stop for police, no insurance, and no driver’s license.
The dirt bike was also impounded for stunting in accordance with the motor vehicle act, said the RCMP.
Not including the impound charge, the cost of tickets were more than $1,300.
The youth and his parent were strongly cautioned about the recklessness of the youth’s actions and warned that such violations could have been criminal code violations.
Police noted that the model of dirt bike that the youth was driving could reach speeds up to 100 km/h.
They are warning parents to think twice about purchasing an e-dirt bike for their children.
“These are not e-bikes. These are not legal motorcycles. These are not toys, but electrified conveyances capable of reaching dangerous speeds with no safety equipment and not intended for use on public roadways. You could also be held liable as well,” said the Maple Ridge RCMP online, adding they want residents to know that they are doing their best to enforce and educate the public as much as possible.
“We know these ‘bikes’ look fun, but what’s no fun is racking up large fines and potentially seriously injuring yourself or others on the road,” they added, addressing youth in the community.
“Driving away from police is never a good idea either. Not only could you be criminally charged, but it could have serious consequences on future licensing opportunities.”