Have you ever been infuriated by the screeching of engines and noisy groups on bikes wreaking havoc on your road? Officers have revealed precisely what action you can take in these circumstances – though their response might surprise you.
When behaviour escalates to ‘very dangerous’ levels, authorities suggest collecting as much information as possible about the cars, motorbikes, and the people operating them. While it’s not mandatory to provide this information to officers when lodging a complaint, it could prove helpful for identification purposes.
Responding to a question on Ask the Police, officers also state: « It is best to contact the police as soon as the cars/bikes arrive so that the police have a better chance of apprehending those responsible. You can report nuisance motor vehicles to your local police force via their 101 non-emergency number. »
Whilst performing tricks on motorbikes or cars may seem like innocent amusement, continuous antisocial vehicle use can have severe repercussions for the wider community, extending well beyond noise pollution.
According to a previous Express report, the Metropolitan Police similarly cautions that carrying out manoeuvres such as doughnuts and wheelies is generally illegal unless they form part of an authorised event with prior approval from local authorities.
In its online guidance, the capital’s police force states: « The effect of dangerous or reckless use of a vehicle can lead to criminal damage of roads, other vehicles and surrounding property. Drivers and riders also risk injuring themselves, other road users, cyclists and pedestrians as they do not have full control of their vehicle and their full attention on their surroundings. »
It then adds: « Driving or riding in this way can also be used as a form of intimidation, either to other road users or the community. Loud noise from engines and music, and deliberately creating large amounts of exhaust or tyre smoke can also be seen as an aggressive act.
« Finally, the use of motorbikes and mopeds to rob (or ‘snatch’) mobile phones and valuables from pedestrians on pavements is a key concern to the police. So anyone acting recklessly on this kind of vehicle is likely to draw police attention. »
The Metropolitan Police also recommend that anyone concerned about reckless vehicle use can report such incidents to the authorities. However, under no circumstances should an individual take matters into their own hands or try to stop activities themselves.
The Metropolitan Police add: « However, don’t take the law into your own hands by intervening, such as turning off their music, making physical threats or attempting to confiscate items.
« You may make the situation worse and even risk committing an offence yourself. »
What is antisocial behaviour?
The Government defines antisocial behaviour as actions that result in harassment, alarm, or distress to others. This encompasses both criminal and non-criminal activities, such as:
- Fly-tipping and littering
- Discarding syringes or needles
- Threatening, harassing or inconsiderate behaviour
- Noisy neighbours
- Vandalism
- Graffiti
Who you report antisocial behaviour to varies based on the type of behaviour and its location:
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