Warnings over E scooters after seizure in Oxford
People are being reminded of the laws ahead of Christmas
Thames Valley Police are reminding people of the laws surrounding E Scooters in the run up to the big day.
E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. This means the rules that apply to motor vehicles, also apply to e-scooters including the need to have a licence and insurance.
It's not currently possible to get insurance for privately owned e-scooters. Meaning if you use a one in public, you risk it being seized. You can ride them on private land, such as in a garden, but only if you have the permission of the landowner to do so.
Where there is a rental trial scheme running, rental e-scooters can be used on public roads, some cycle lanes, and other public spaces. However, traffic laws must be abided by or the user can face prosecution.
Thames Valley Police's Inspector Mike Darrah said:
“Many people may not understand the laws surrounding privately owned e-scooters, which prohibit you from using them in public areas.
“There is also a risk of severe injury, and incidents which involve a collision with an e-scooter are investigated in the same way as if riding or driving any other type of motor vehicle.
“We are already working in partnership with schools and colleges to ensure students are aware of the laws surrounding e-scooters, and I am urging parents to consider the risks if they are looking at gifting an e-scooter.”
In November 2024, the force seized 80 e-scooters and e-bikes, with 33 of these seizures being e-scooters. Here in our county last night, Tuesday December 3rd, 10 e-bikes and e-scooters were seized in an operation carried out in Oxford.
Matthew Barber, Police & Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, says his message is clear:
"Whilst for many, e-scooters are a convenient way to get around, it is nevertheless illegal to use a privately owned e-scooters anywhere on public land.
"Aside from the risk of injuring and concerns about the fire risks from some batteries, you risk having your e-scooter seized by the police.
"So, my message this Christmas is simple: don't by an e-scooter as a present."