Royal Mail van ‘hit by E-bike rider’ in Swindon crash

The crash took place shortly before 1pm on February 6 after a female rider was reportedly spotted riding around the playfield at the end of Truscott Avenue.

She is then believed to have travelled at speed down the footpath towards the T-junction before allegedly colliding with a Royal Mail van.

The van had been travelling slowly towards the turning circle at the end of the street.

There were no serious injuries reported in the crash.

Police have issued the suspected rider, a woman in her 20s, with a notice of intended prosecution for careless driving, driving without a licence and driving without insurance.

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The seized E-bike in Swindon (Image: Wiltshire Police) She is alleged to have asked her friend to come and take the bike away, but police were able to track it to in Birkdale Close.

The bike was subsequently seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act.

Inspector Joe Senior, based in Swindon, warned that police will crack down on those breaking the law surrounding the use of E-bikes.

He said: “E-bikes such as the one being ridden here are considered to be motorcycles due to their size and power, meaning they require insurance and a licence to be legally ridden.

“Not only did the rider not have insurance or a licence but she was riding in an incredibly dangerous manner and is fortunate not to have caused herself a serious injury in the collision.

“There are strict laws in place around e-bikes to keep the public safe.

“We appreciate the public concern around e-bikes at present and we will not hesitate to put before the courts anyone who is found to breach these laws.”

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Police have also issued advice over the law when it comes to the use of E-bikes.

Electric Assisted Pedal Cycles are legal to ride if you are over the age of 14 and do not require a licence or need to be registered, taxed or insured.

However, in order to meet this criteria, the vehicle must have pedals that need to be in motion for electric assistance to be provided, have a maximum output of 250 watts, must not be able to provide electrical assistance over 15.5mph, and must show the battery’s voltage or maximum speed.

E-bikes that don’t meet these rules are classed as a motorcycles or mopeds and need to be registered, insured and taxed.