Majority in parliament calls for minimum age for fatbikes
The majority of the House of Representatives wants stricter measures, particularly age requirement, to be introduced for riding fatbikes. The PVV, GroenLinks-PvdA, and VVD parties want Infrastructure Minister Madlener to introduce a minimum age. However, the PVV MP has expressed little support for the measures, RTL Nieuws reports.
The discussion about fatbikes has been going on for some time. At the end of June, the VVD already stated that it was in favor of stricter measures, such as a helmet requirement, a driving license, or a minimum age. We all see how many accidents and nuisances young people cause on fatbikes. These machines are de facto just mopeds," says MP Hester Veltman.
Madlener's party is now also pushing for an age requirement for fatbikes to be introduced as soon as possible. The PVV hopes this will protect other road users from young fatbike riders, particularly those who tend to ride recklessly. "We will see which age limit best contributes to this," said PVV MP Hidde Heutink.
GroenLinks-PvdA also calls for stricter measures to ensure safer traffic on Dutch roads. "The nuisance caused by fatbikes is getting out of hand and leading to serious accidents, often involving young children and teenagers," says MP Habtamu de Hoop. Therefore, he calls for a helmet requirement and a minimum age of 12 years, RTL Nieuws reports.
De Hoop is upset about the attitude of the Minister of Infrastructure and thinks that he is playing down the danger of fatbikes. "PVV Minister Madlener is dismissing this as 'fun and cool bikes,' which is completely irresponsible!"
The BBB also favors introducing a minimum age and envisages an age limit of 16. "We need to take a serious look at this," says BBB leader Caroline van der Plas.
It is still unclear whether the minimum age will ultimately be introduced. When the debate on road safety takes place in the House of Representatives in two weeks, MPs will be able to submit their proposals for a minimum age.
