E-Bike Rider Convicted for Illegal Modifications After Fatal West London Collision
An e-bike rider involved in a fatal collision in west London has been convicted and banned from driving for six months after illegally modifying his vehicle to exceed legal speed limits. Henry Morgan, 61, pleaded guilty to multiple offences related to the incident, which occurred on Uxbridge Road in Shepherd's Bush on 28 February last year.
Details of the Fatal Incident
Westminster Magistrates' Court heard on Friday that Morgan was overtaking a bus while riding his e-bike, which had been illegally fitted with a throttle to enable speeds up to 27mph. As he rode, he collided with a pedestrian in his 60s who was attempting to cross the road. The victim sustained a head injury and later died from the accident.
Prosecutors argued that Morgan's modifications effectively turned the e-bike into a motorcycle, as legally, e-bike motors must cut out when a speed of 15.5mph is reached. Despite the fatal outcome, it was ultimately found that Morgan was not responsible for the crash itself, leading to no charges over the death.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Morgan pleaded guilty to driving the modified bike without a license or insurance, using an illegally enhanced e-bike, and failing to wear appropriate protective headgear. District Judge Michael Snow sentenced him, imposing a six-month driving ban, a £240 fine, £85 in costs, and a £96 victim surcharge.
Judge Snow remarked that the penalty might seem "pathetically small" given the death involved, but he had to disregard the fatality in sentencing since Morgan was not found culpable. He emphasized the broader dangers posed by such modifications, stating, "It's become a common sight for all of us who travel around London on bikes, on foot or in vehicles to see these electric bikes, which have been modified, tearing around at frightening speed, causing clearly significant danger to other persons."
Broader Implications and Warnings
The judge added that he often sees modified bicycles in cycle lanes where they are not designed to be, highlighting a growing safety concern in London. He noted, "This case does represent a salutary warning of the dangers which road users in London face at the hands of bicycles which have been adapted in this way, causing a clear and obvious risk."
In defence, Robert Grey argued that Morgan's offence was borne out of ignorance, as the e-bike was purchased from Decathlon in an already modified state, and Morgan did not realize he needed a license or insurance. However, the court maintained that the modifications made the bike capable of going almost twice the legal limit, underscoring the serious nature of the violations.
This case underscores ongoing issues with e-bike safety and regulation in urban areas, prompting calls for increased awareness and enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future.
