Police warnings over the use of e-scooters on public roads

LEICESTERSHIRE Police has warned people about the legal restrictions which govern use of e-scooters and is urging anyone who is considering buying one as a Christmas gift to familiarise themselves with the law first.

The law states that you cannot ride them on a UK public road, cycle lane or pavement – meaning you can only go for a spin on an e-scooter on private land.

E-scooters are classified as personal light electric vehicles, (PLEVs), so they are treated as motor vehicles and subject to the same legal requirements, such as an MOT, licence, tax and insurance.

And as they do not have number plates, signalling ability and don’t always have visible rear lights, they can’t be used legally on the roads.

Jonathan Clarkson, spokesperson for the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Road Safety Partnership, said: “We understand the public’s support for environmentally friendly modes of transport.

“We want to work with the public to make sure the roads are safe for everyone.

“The UK government is currently taking part in Future Transport Zone trials for e-scooter hire, with a view to making them legal to use on the roads.

“All local authorities can apply to take part, but at the moment, Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are not part of the trials.”

Section 59 of the Police Reform Act allows police to give road users a warning if they are reported to

We want to work with the public to make sure the roads are safe for everyone

Jonathan Clarkson

have used their vehicle in a manner which causes alarm, distress or annoyance. Leicestershire Police also have the powers to seize vehicles, including e-scooters, if found to be used illegally. Last month, a driving instructor had a near miss with an e-scooter in Loughborough after the rider pulled out without looking.