POLICE are warning go-ped riders not to fall foul of the law after a Trowbridge man received a 12-month driving ban for drinking and riding.
Despite their size, the petrol-powered scooters are legally classified as motor vehicles requiring a driving licence, insurance and tax if they are ridden on the road.
Police believe many owners are unaware of this and are warning that they may be prosecuted if they are found to be riding illegally.
The 40-year-old man from Trowbridge admitted drink-driving, driving without insurance and careless driving on his go-ped when he appeared before Chippenham magistrates last month. As well as his 12-month ban, he was ordered to pay £350 in fines and court costs.
Police spokesman Steve Coxhead said: "This highlights the fact that as far as the law and the police are concerned go-peds are motor vehicles. You need to have insurance, a driving licence and comply with all of the road traffic legislation including that you can't drink and ride."
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