Warnings about use of e-scooters from police
POLICE who have received an increasing number of reports of escooters being used illegally have promised to clamp down on the two-wheeled law-breakers.
Officers from different parts of the Devon and Cornwall force area have been posting warnings on social media in recent days, alerting unsuspecting buyers that their e-scooters are not entitled by law to be ridden on roads or pavements.
Brixham Police’s neighbourhood team urged people to think carefully if they were considering the purchase of an electric-powered scooter, stating: “If you drive it on public land, you are risking being reported for several penalty point offences and having the scooter seized”.
The social media post warned that officers from Brixham and Paignton would be out and about over the coming weeks “providing enforcement and education” about the law and the risks law-breakers face.
Police issued similar warnings in November last year, while Plympton police’s neighbourhood team have also used their social media page to give a detailed series of warnings about the issue.
PCSO Elaine Hesketh, from Plympton, wrote: “I have noticed that there is an increasing number of e-scooters on the roads, on the pavements and in other public places.
“We understand that e-scooters are very tempting for presents, and a great way to get around, but we would urge people to fully understand the law first.
“If you are found to be using an e-scooter in a public place, the scooter could be seized, and the rider reported for any offences.
“We would also urge anyone using an e-scooter legally – i.e. on private land – to carefully consider their safety before doing so. All riders should wear a helmet, younger riders particularly, would benefit from additional protective clothing such as knee and elbow pads to minimise injury.”