Boy, 14, dies after electric bike crash with best friend left ‘seriously hurt’

Finley Dawson was thrown from the electric motorbike with his best friend who remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition

A teenage boy has died following a collision between an electric bike and a car.

Finley Dawson was travelling on an electric motorbike when it was involved in a crash with a Kia Sportage at approximately 8.30pm on Thursday, March 5. The 14-year-old and his passenger, a 15-year-old boy, were thrown from the bike onto the road.

Both were taken to hospital with serious injuries after the incident on Newbold Road, Chesterfield, Derbyshire.

Medical staff at the hospital determined that Finley’s injuries were ‘non survivable’ and he passed away the next day, reports Birmingham Live.

The pillion passenger continues to receive treatment in hospital and is currently in a serious but stable condition, according to Derbyshire Constabulary. Police have confirmed that no arrests have been made.

The Kia driver is being treated as a witness and is helping officers with their investigation, the force stated.

The families of both youngsters have now issued a warning about the use of electric motorbikes on public roads. In a joint statement, they expressed that ‘Finley has paid the ultimate price in losing his life’.

The statement continued: “His friend has sustained serious injuries and has to come to terms with growing up without his best mate. Although the thrill of riding an electric bike on the road seems exciting, it can also be fatal.

“That quick thrill, is not worth the risk.”

The force confirmed that specialist officers are providing support to Finley’s family.

According to Gov.uk, individuals aged 14 and above are permitted to ride an electric bike – provided it qualifies as an ‘electrically assisted pedal cycle’ (EAPC). No licence is required to operate an EAPC, and it doesn’t need to be registered, taxed or insured.

Gov.uk states: “If your bike is an EAPC then you can ride it on cycle paths and anywhere else pedal bikes are allowed. You cannot ride it on pavements.”

Should your electric bike fail to comply with EAPC regulations, it must be registered and taxed.

Additionally, you’ll need to obtain a valid driving licence, arrange insurance and wear a helmet that meets required standards, otherwise it cannot be legally ridden on public roads throughout the UK.

Gov.uk explains: “If your electric bike does not meet the EAPC rules then it’s classed as a motorcycle or moped.”