🚨 Police Advice to Residents on E-Scooter Use
âś… Legal Use of E-Scooters
• Privately owned e-scooters are not legal to use on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes, or public spaces.
• They can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission.
• Rental e-scooters (part of government-approved trials) may be used legally on public roads and cycle lanes in trial areas only and must follow the same rules as other motor vehicles.
❌ Illegal Use Includes:
• Riding on pavements or footpaths.
• Riding on public roads without insurance, tax, or registration (which private e-scooters cannot obtain).
• Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Using a mobile phone while riding.
⚖️ Legal Classification
• E-scooters are classified as “powered transporters”, which means they fall under the same laws as motor vehicles.
• Riders must have:
• A valid driving licence (for rental scooters).
• Be 18 or older (for rental scooters).
• Follow road traffic laws (e.g., traffic lights, speed limits).
👮‍♂️ Police Enforcement
• Police may seize e-scooters being used illegally.
• Riders may face fines, penalty points, or prosecution.
• Parents may be held responsible if children are caught riding illegally.
________________________________________
🚨 Why Are Police Seizing E-Scooters?
1. Illegal Use on Public Roads
Privately owned e-scooters are not road legal. They lack:
• Insurance
• Registration
• MOT
• Road tax
Because of this, riding them on public roads or pavements is a criminal offence under the Road Traffic Act.
2. Safety Concerns
Police are responding to:
• Collisions involving pedestrians
• Anti-social behaviour (e.g., reckless riding)
• Noise and nuisance in residential areas
3. Enforcement Powers
Under the law, police can:
• Stop riders and issue warnings or fines
• Seize the e-scooter under Section 165A of the Road Traffic Act 1988
• Destroy the vehicle if not claimed or if it’s deemed unsafe
📢 Community Message
We understand the appeal of e-scooters, but safety and legality must come first. Please help keep our roads and pavements safe by following the law. If you’re unsure whether your e-scooter is legal to ride, it probably isn’t.
PC 5729 NAPOLI
Riseley Police Station
High Street
Riseley
________________________________________