Have you ever been utterly furious at shrieking motors and rowdy groups on bikes wreaking havoc on your road? Officers have revealed precisely what action you can take in these circumstances – though their response may surprise you.
When conduct becomes ‘very dangerous’, officials suggest collecting as much detail as feasible regarding the vehicles, motorcycles, and people operating them. Whilst you’re under no obligation to share this with officers when filing a complaint, it could prove valuable for identification reasons.
Responding to an enquiry 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 executing stunts on motorcycles or vehicles may seem like innocent entertainment, regular antisocial vehicle usage can create significant consequences for the wider neighbourhood, going well beyond noise disturbances.
The Metropolitan Police additionally warns that carrying out manoeuvres such as doughnuts and wheelies is typically prohibited unless they form part of a sanctioned event with advance consent from local councils.
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.”
According to the Mirror, it 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 advise that anyone worried about reckless vehicle use can report such incidents to the authorities. Nonetheless, under no circumstances should a person take the law into their own hands or attempt 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 cause harassment, alarm, or distress to others. This includes 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:
- The police – if you feel threatened or you think the behaviour could be breaking the law
- Your council – if it affects your local area
- Your landlord – if you live in a council or housing association home and it’s happening in or near your building
Different methods of reporting antisocial behaviour are used in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
