What Are the Rules for Electric Scooters in the UK?

Especially in cities like London, e-scooters have been increasingly popular in the UK as a sustainable and ecologically friendly kind of transportation. Though, understanding the legal consequences of riding an electric scooter can be somewhat challenging. Whether you intend to own one or rent one, knowing the regulations can help you remain safe and prevent penalties.

Are Electric Scooters Legal in the UK?

Privately owned electric scooters are now classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), and unless future law permits it, they are not permitted on public highways, pavements, or bike lanes. At the moment, they are only permitted on private property with owner permission.

The UK government has begun negotiating laws to legalise and regulate the use of private e-scooters. These potential changes could call for safety equipment like lights and helmets, insurance, and driver’s licenses.

Until then, the only legal method to use an e-scooter in public is via rental programs running under government-approved trials available in certain cities.

Rental E-Scooters: Where and How to Use Them

Rental e-scooters are both legally permitted and insured for public use within the confines of government-approved pilot projects. Though allowed on highways and bike lanes, these scooters are not allowed on pavements.

Before getting on a scooter rental:

• Check Your Eligibility: You need a present driver’s license, either full or provisional.
• Ride Responsibly: Avoiding crowded areas and remaining on bike lanes or quiet roads can help you to ride sensibly.
• Bring Safety Gear: Bring your own helmet as rental scooters usually don’t come with one.

Cities such London, Manchester, Bristol, Liverpool, and Birmingham provide a range of well-liked rental options. Simply download the app, unlock the scooter, and ride it within the approved zones.¹

Why Privately Owned E-Scooters Are Restricted

The main justifications for the restrictions on privately owned scooters are insufficient comprehensive regulation and safety issues. Without sufficient insurance and safety measures, accident risk increases. Though tiny and nimble, e-scooters can badly harm pedestrians and riders alike if misused particularly in crowded locations.

Private e-scooters would be allowed on public roads under new legislation possibly requiring users to:

• Obtain insurance comparable to that required for automobiles.
• Utilise safety elements including lights, helmets, and indicators.
• Don’t ride on pavements to protect people.

Can You be Fined for Using E-Scooter?

Regarding TFL², if caught riding a privately owned e-scooter on public roads, pavements, or cycle lanes, you could face:

• A £300 fine.
• Six penalty points on your driving licence.
• Confiscation of your scooter.

You might also get a set penalty notice if your electric scooter is uninsured. Moreover, if you are injured riding a private scooter illegally, obtaining compensation can be difficult for you. Insurers could reject claims for injuries sustained during illegal conduct, so forcing you to cover your own medical treatment and recovery.

Why E-scooters are not Legal?

Especially for users who are not adequately covered, e-scooters have natural hazards despite their convenience. Many of these can be seen across the city turned over on payments, so threatening bystanders. E-scooter accidents might result with severe injuries since there are no physical barriers to protect the rider from the road.

In reaction to these risks, legislators are developing systems to more control e-scooter use. Some of the expected changes that would ensure everyone’s safety are mandatory helmets, speed limits, and better road-sharing practices.

Staying Safe on E-Scooters

Whether you are renting a scooter or preparing for the eventual legalisation of individual scooters, following these safety measures is absolutely vital:

• Wear a Helmet: Wear a helmet to avoid head injuries.
• Ride in Designated Areas: Stay in bike lanes and avoid pavement.
• Check the Scooter: Your lights and brakes should be functioning before you leave.
• Avoid Distractions: Ride carefully and avoid phone use.

Need Assistance with a Personal Injury Claim?

Whether you were a pedestrian or a rider, if you were wounded in an electric push scooter accident, you can be entitled for compensation. At SilverOak Solicitors, we specialise in personal injury claims, especially those relating to traffic dangers and accidents caused by negligent e-scooter use.

To talk with a solicitor for free, call 020 8578 7778. You may pursue justice without concern about money since we operate on a No Win No Fee model. Let us help you navigate your claim so you may receive the money owing to you.

¹ https://www.gov.uk/guidance/e-scooter-trials-guidance-for-users

² https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/electric-scooter-rental-trial