E-scooters are illegal to ride on public roads, say Dorset Police
Dorset Police are issuing a reminder over the use of e-scooters
Dorset Police are reminding anyone with an e-scooter that riding on a public road is illegal.
The current rules state you can only use them on private land.
Electric e-scooters have been introduced by many councils as eco-friendly methods of travel, all of which are completely legal.
Numerous towns and cities across Dorset and Somerset are currently trialling the scheme, including Bournemouth, Poole and Yeovil.
However, Dorset Police say riding a privately owned e-scooter on any public road is currently illegal.
A spokesperson for Dorset Police said:
"We understand that buying an e-scooter can be tempting, especially as you can get them from many popular retailers.
"You can buy one, but you can’t ride it on a UK public road, cycle lane or pavement. The only place an e-scooter can be used is on private land with the land owner’s permission."
E-scooters are classified as:
Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), so they are treated as motor vehicles and subject to the same legal requirements, such as:
• MOT
• Licensing
• Tax
• Insurance
A Dorset Police spokesperson added:
"Police can seize any private scooters if they are being used on a public road or footpath and the rider may also be liable for prosecution for traffic offences.
"Dorset Police understand the public support for environmentally friendly modes of transport. We want to work with the public to make sure that the roads are safe for everyone."