The increasing popularity of electric scooters (e-scooters) has led to a surge in their use, but it’s crucial to understand the legalities and dangers associated with them. Police forces across the UK are clamping down on the illegal use of e-scooters, with warnings issued and vehicles being seized and even destroyed. This article will delve into the current laws surrounding e-scooters, the risks involved, and the actions being taken by law enforcement.
The Legal Status of E-Scooters in the UK
Private E-Scooters: Illegal in Public Spaces
Currently, privately owned e-scooters are largely illegal to use on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes, and pedestrian-only areas in the UK. They are classified as “powered transporters” and fall under the same laws as motor vehicles. This means that to be used legally on public roads, they would need to meet the same requirements as cars and motorcycles, including insurance, tax, registration, and licensing, which is practically impossible for most e-scooters. The only place where private e-scooters can be used legally is on private land with the landowner’s permission.
Rental E-Scooters: Legal in Specific Trial Areas
In some areas of the UK, the government has introduced rental e-scooter trials. These rental e-scooters can be legally used on public roads, some cycle lanes, and other public spaces within the designated trial areas. However, they are subject to specific local regulations and require the rider to have a provisional or full driver’s license, with the rental company providing insurance.
Why Are E-Scooters Illegal on Public Roads?
The primary reason for the illegality of private e-scooters on public roads is that they do not meet the legal requirements for motor vehicles. They are not designed for road use and lack the necessary safety features, such as indicators, lights, and registration plates. Additionally, they are often ridden without any training or protective gear, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Enforcement and Seizure of Illegal E-Scooters
Police forces across the UK are actively enforcing the laws regarding e-scooters. If a privately owned e-scooter is used in public, it risks being seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 for having no insurance. Additionally, using an e-scooter in an antisocial manner can lead to its seizure under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act.
Operation Crush: Destroying Seized E-Scooters
Some police forces have launched initiatives like “Operation Crush,” which allows them to destroy seized e-scooters and e-motorcycles that have been used illegally or in criminal activities. This measure is aimed at preventing these vehicles from falling back into the hands of those who misuse them. In Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, over 100 such vehicles have been crushed in the first year of the operation.
Warnings and Repeat Offenses
In some areas, police initially issue warnings to riders of illegal e-scooters. However, if the same rider is caught again, officers are likely to seize the vehicle. The warnings are logged on police systems to facilitate tracking repeat offenders. Some areas have now moved to a policy of direct seizure, removing the initial warning stage.
The Dangers of Illegal E-Scooter Use
Risks to Riders and the Public
The illegal use of e-scooters poses significant dangers to both riders and the public. The lack of proper safety equipment, inadequate infrastructure, and the often reckless manner in which they are used contribute to a high risk of accidents and injuries. E-scooter riders are particularly vulnerable as they have little protection in the event of a collision.
Accident Statistics and Fatalities
E-scooter accidents have been on the rise in recent years. Data from the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety (PACTS) shows that there have been 45 deaths involving e-scooters since 2019. The youngest person to die was a 12-year-old rider, and the oldest was 74. Many of these fatalities involved single-vehicle collisions.
Injuries and Medical Treatment
A study commissioned by Transport for London (TfL) indicated that riding an e-scooter could be 100 times more dangerous than riding a bicycle. Traumatic head injuries and fractures to the jaw, wrists, and ankles are not uncommon. E-scooter riders are also 16 times more likely to be injured in a collision than car passengers.
Fire Risks
In addition to collision risks, e-scooters also pose a fire risk due to their lithium-ion batteries. If damaged, these batteries can cause severe fires. There have been cases of fires believed to have been caused by e-bike and e-scooter batteries failing, leading to injuries and fatalities.
E-Scooters and Children
Legal Restrictions
It’s crucial for parents to understand that it’s illegal for children to ride private e-scooters in public spaces. The use of e-scooters by children is only permitted on private property with the landowner’s consent. Buying an e-scooter for a child encourages them to break the law and puts them at risk.
Minimum Age Recommendations
While the legalities are clear, there are recommendations to set a minimum age limit of 16 for the use of e-scooters and to enforce helmet use, even though it is not legally required.
The Future of E-Scooter Legislation
Calls for Legalization
There have been calls from UK councils to make private electric scooters legal. The government has been conducting trials of rental e-scooters to assess their viability as a mode of transport and determine the best course of action for the future of e-scooter legislation.
Potential Changes
If the laws change, this could bring e-scooter use in line with the use of electric bikes. However, any changes would need to address the safety concerns, infrastructure needs, and proper regulation of e-scooters.
Staying Safe with E-Scooters
For Legal E-Scooter Users
- Always wear a helmet: Although it is not a legal requirement, wearing a helmet is crucial for safety.
- Obey traffic laws: Follow all road signs and signals, and be aware of your surroundings.
- Be mindful of pedestrians: Always be considerate of pedestrians and give way to them.
- Use designated lanes: When using a rental e-scooter, stick to designated lanes and areas when available.
For the Public
- Be aware of e-scooter users: Be vigilant, especially in areas where e-scooters are common.
- Report illegal e-scooter use: If you see someone using an e-scooter illegally, report it to the local authorities.
Conclusion
The use of e-scooters in the UK is a complex issue, with legal restrictions and safety concerns at the forefront. While e-scooters offer a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transport, it’s essential to adhere to the current laws. The police crackdown on illegal e-scooter use highlights the need for greater awareness and responsible riding practices. By understanding the risks, and supporting responsible use, we can help ensure the safety of all road users and pedestrians.
