E-scooter rider incidents are running into the thousands

E-SCOOTER riders are under scrutiny as thousands of incidents of “highway disruption” and “inconsiderate behaviour” are being reported to the police.

Statistics released under the Freedom of Information Act show more than 1,000 incidents involving the electronically powered scooters as well as hoverboards and Segways have been reported in the past three years.

Reports included instances of riders crashing into prams, striking elderly people and playing “chicken” with cars. The figures have prompted the Department for Transport to warn e-scooter riders they need to be aware of the law.

It is illegal to ride e-scooters, Segways or hoverboards on any public roads or pavements and those caught face fines of up to £300 and six points on their driver’s licence.

However, the department is reviewing legislation that could lift restrictions on using e-scooters on the road. A spokesman said: “Safety is at the heart of our road laws, and people who use e-scooters need to be aware it is currently illegal to ride them on the road and the pavement.”

Statistics showed there were 1,275 incidents reported in 2016, 1,123 in 2017 and 1,017 in 2018. Police recorded 618 incidents for the first half of 2019. However, the true figures are thought to be much higher, as only 27 of the country’s 45 forces released figures.

The statistics come weeks after what is thought to be the first e-scooter fatality in the UK. Emily Hartridge, 35, a Youtuber and TV presenter, died after being hit by a lorry while negotiating a roundabout in south London in July.

Joshua Harris, of the road safety charity Brake, said: “The clear lack of public awareness of the rules regarding e-scooter use must be addressed as a priority. The Government must act now to make clear that these devices are illegal to use on any public road, pavement or cycle path.”