The latest Local Policing Newsletter for Enderby, Narborough, Littlethorpe and Lubbesthorpe contains important advice about e-scooters (electric scooters).
Our local police are hoping to combat some of the myths about where you can and can’t ride e-scooters.
While e-scooters are legally available to purchase, and some trials with rented e-scooters are now under way, it’s currently against the law to ride a privately owned e-scooter in any public place in the UK.
The current prohibited use of e-scooters includes on roads, pavements, parks, town centres or promenades. The only place a privately owned e-scooter can be used is on private land.
This is because e-scooters are classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs) so they are treated as motor vehicles.
As such, if they are used on a road, pavement or public place they are subject to the same legal requirements as any motor vehicle.
It’s important to note:
- If you are caught using an e-scooter illegally then you could face a fine, penalty points on your driving licence or even the loss of your licence.
- If you use e-scooters dangerously or while under the influence of drink or drugs then you could be convicted of offences which could lead to a prison sentence.
- Offences relating to the standard of driving or speeding also apply and police have the power to seize e-scooters if offences have been committed.
Police say that they understand that e-scooters are very tempting presents, but they urge people to fully understand the law first. Some people are purchasing e-scooters in the mistaken belief they can legally use them on public paths and roads; THIS IS NOT THE CASE.
Public engagement
The focus of our local police is engaging with members of the community and making them aware of the law
regarding e-scooters. Offenders who knowingly and persistently break the law will be dealt with appropriately, whereby the e-scooter will be seized and the rider reported for any offences.
Police 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) and would benefit from additional protective clothing
such as knee and elbow pads to minimise injury.
View local policing page on Leicestershire Police website