Every day as a bus driver in the UK, I witness and experience the increasing hazards posed by e-bikes. These bikes, often ridden recklessly by young adults and adults alike, do not adhere to the safety standards expected of road users. The problem is not just a personal concern but a widespread issue impacting bus, HGV, taxi drivers, and anyone who uses the roads.

Recently, a shocking video surfaced online showing an e-bike being hit by a bus in London. This incident highlights the urgency for stringent regulation of these vehicles on our roads. Unlike pedal bikes, e-bikes can reach high speeds quickly and are often operated by individuals without proper training, leading to dangerous situations that put themselves and others at risk.

The unregulated use of e-bikes has created numerous safety issues. According to data from Transport for London, the number of accidents involving e-bikes has increased significantly in recent years. This data is not just statistics but real stories of individuals negatively impacted by inadequately regulated vehicles on our roads.

We propose the following concrete and actionable solutions:

1. Implement mandatory licensing for e-bike riders, ensuring they understand the rules of the road and have the capability to operate their vehicles safely.

2. Require insurance for e-bike owners to ensure that damages from accidents can be appropriately covered.

3. Introduce compulsory road-standard safety checks and regulations for e-bikes to verify that they meet appropriate safety standards.

By enforcing these measures, we can significantly enhance road safety, reducing accidents and chaos caused by unmonitored e-bike usage.

We urge the UK government and relevant transport authorities to take decisive action to regulate e-bikes for the safety of all road users. Sign this petition to support this change and make our roads safer for everyone.