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

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

Following a tragic incident in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, the parents of a 14-year-old boy who lost his life in a collision involving an e-bike have issued a caution to younger riders. They highlighted that the excitement of riding such vehicles can carry severe risks.

On Thursday, Finley Dawson, 14, was operating an electric motorbike when it collided with a Kia Sportage on Newbold Road. The accident occurred around 8:30pm, sending Finley and his 15-year-old passenger, who was riding behind him, tumbling onto the road.

Finley was hospitalized after the crash, but his injuries were described as ‘non-survivable.’ He passed away the day after the incident. His 15-year-old companion remains in the hospital, with serious but stable injuries.

Derbyshire police stated that the Kia driver is being treated as a witness, aiding investigators in their probe. No arrests have been made at this time.

In a joint statement, the families emphasized: ‘There is a reason these bikes are banned from the road, and Finley has paid the ultimate price by losing his life. His friend has sustained serious injuries and now grapples with the reality of growing up without his best mate. While the thrill of riding an electric bike on the road may appear exhilarating, it can also prove deadly.’

According to UK regulations, individuals must be at least 16 and possess a valid driving license to operate electronic motorbikes on public roads. Pedal-assisted e-bikes, however, can be ridden by those aged 14 and above, provided their ‘continuous rated power’ does not exceed 250 watts.