E-Scooters: What are the rules?
Police are warning parents that E-Scooters pose legal risks and safety hazards
Last updated 21st Nov 2023
With the holiday season around the corner, Thames Valley and Hertfordshire police are issuing a stern warning to parents considering purchasing e-scooters for their children.
The popular electric scooters have surged in popularity in recent years, but it remains illegal to ride them on public land.
In an official statement, Herts police have emphasized the importance of understanding the laws surrounding e-scooters, especially with Black Friday and Christmas approaching rapidly.
Meanwhile, Thames Valley Police's Chief Constable, Jason Hogg, has issued a stern warning, stating that parents allowing their children to use e-scooters could face fines up to £300 and license points.
The penalty for driving without insurance mirrors that of e-scooter use – a £300 fine and six license points or an unlimited fine and disqualification if taken to court.
PCC Hogg says a crackdown on e-scooters is imminent, with plans to prosecute parents for permitting illegal use and to seize e-scooters.
The only legal exceptions are e-scooters hired through approved rental schemes.
So what are the Laws?
Legal Status of E-Scooters
E-scooters fall under the category of "powered transporters," considered motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988.
The rules that apply to motor vehicles, including the need for a license, insurance, and tax, also apply to e-scooters.
Insurance and Road Use
Currently, it is not possible to obtain insurance for privately owned e-scooters, rendering their use on roads or in public spaces illegal.
Using a private e-scooter without insurance risks vehicle seizure under S.165 Road Traffic Act 1988.
Serious Incidents and Investigations
If an e-scooter rider causes serious harm to another person, the incident will be investigated similarly to motorcycle or car incidents.
Rental E-Scooter Trials
Trials of rental e-scooters are ongoing in the UK, subject to compliance with road traffic legislation.
Rental e-scooters can only be used in approved areas by individuals meeting age and licensing requirements.
Legal Use of E-Scooters
It is legal to use e-scooters on private land with the landowner's permission.
In areas where rental schemes operate, rental e-scooters can be used on public roads and cycle lanes.
Penalties and Offences
Penalties for lacking the correct license, insurance, or riding without a license include fines and penalty points.
Offenses such as riding on a pavement, using a mobile device while riding, running red lights, or drink driving carry specific penalties.
Seizure of E-Scooters
E-scooters used in public in an antisocial manner can be seized under section 59 of the Police Reform Act.
A Herts police spokesperson says: "The vehicles have become increasingly popular in recent years however it is currently still illegal to ride them on public land anywhere in Hertfordshire.
E-scooters can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission. While they can be used on public land as part of a government trial, there are no trials taking place anywhere in the county at this time.
If you ride an e-scooter through the public streets of Hertfordshire, you are breaking the law.
Many parents may be unaware of the legislation and will be buying these scooters for their children thinking they are harmless fun. However, these vehicles can be very dangerous and many people across the country have been injured as a result of collisions involving e-scooters.
If you are caught riding one on a public highway, pavement or cycle lane it could be seized by the police. You could also be reported for driving offences which would lead to significant penalty points and a fine.
If you are a parent letting your child ride these in public, you will be the one found responsible and in turn this could affect your own driving licence.