North Wales Police moves to clear-up e-scooter confusion

11.10 | 22 April 2021 |

Amid an increase in popularity, North Wales Police is engaging with the public to make them aware of the law regarding privately-owned e-scooters.

Under Government regulations, e-scooters are classed as ‘powered transporters’ – a term used to cover a variety of novel and emerging personal transport devices which are powered by a motor.

This means they are treated as a motor vehicle and subject to the same legal requirements such as MOT, licensing, tax and insurance. 

As e-scooters don’t have number plates, signal ability and don’t always have a visible rear light, they can’t be used legally on the roads.

Their use is also prohibited on cycle lanes and pavements.

E-scooters are currently only legal to ride on private land with the landowner’s permission, or as part of Government trials of rental schemes.

However, at present, north Wales is not part of these trials.

Officers are reminding people that riding an e-scooter in public when it is not part of an authorised trial is against the law, and can result in penalty points, a fine and seizure of the vehicle.

Sgt Liam Ho, from North Wales Police’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “We understand that buying an e-scooter can be tempting, especially as you can buy them from many popular retailers.

“However, the current law is clear. You can buy one but you can’t ride it on a public road, cycle lane or pavement. E-scooters can only be used on private land with the permission of the landowner.

“With the summer months just around the corner we want to ensure that children and parents/carers understand the danger these machines pose to both the rider and pedestrians. 

“We will continue to engage with the public to make them aware of the law regarding e-scooters and I would encourage parents and carers to ensure their children are following the guidelines correctly.

“If you own an e-scooter do not ride these machines in public places. Comply with the law for your own safety and the safety of others.”


 

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