Thames Valley Police crime commissioner Mathew Barber wants to stop the selling of 'illegal' e-scooters
Mathew Barber has written to Argos, Currys, Decathlon and Halfords urging them to stop selling the illegal e-scooters
Despite being legal to sell e-scooters, the use of them is currently illegal in all public places, except for on private land.
In his letter to retailers, Matthew Barber said: “The use of privately owned e-scooters in public places is currently illegal.
"E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles, requiring insurance, which is currently not available.
"I know that you are aware of this fact, as you include a disclaimer on your website, yet you continue to offer these products for sale.”
“Of course, I entirely accept the sale of e-scooters is perfectly legal as they could be used on private land, and indeed in due course the legal position may well change.
"I also appreciate as a commercial entity you are entitled, and indeed obliged to deliver profit for the business.
Nevertheless, I would ask if you consider the continued sales to be consistent with being a responsible corporate citizen.
“Approved e-scooter pilots only operate in limited areas, provide insurance, and require a driving licence.
"Despite your disclaimer, you are well aware that the vast majority of these products sold in your stores and online will be used illegally.
"Encouraging the use of these vehicles leads to uninsured, unlicensed riders on our roads, often without any safety equipment such as helmets.
"I would ask if you would be content for your children to ride an e-scooter illegally, potentially putting themselves and others at risk and urge you to reconsider your position.”
If you don't have a licence, or the correct licence, or are riding without insurance you could face a number of Fixed Penalty notices:
- A ÂŁ300 fine and six penalty points on your licence for having no insurance
- Up to ÂŁ100 fine and three to six penalty points for riding without the correct licence
You could also be committing an offence if you're caught:
- Riding on a pavement; Fixed Penalty Notice and possible ÂŁ50 fine
- Using a mobile phone or other handheld mobile device while riding; ÂŁ200 and six penalty points
- Riding through red lights; Fixed Penalty Notice, ÂŁ100 fine and possible penalty points
- Drink driving: the same as if you were driving a car, you could face court imposed fines, a driving ban and possible imprisonment