Electric scooters, otherwise known as e-scooters, have surged in popularity in recent years, becoming a common sight on streets and pavements. And it’s not hard to see why electric scooters are so popular. They’re maneuverable, zippy and especially convenient for small journeys.
However, the laws governing electric scooters are a source of confusion for many, with owners not sure where they can and can’t legally use their e-scooter. This uncertainty can have risks and legal consequences, particularly if a rider or a pedestrian is hurt by an electric scooter.
To help e-scooter owners, pedestrians and other road users, here we’ll explain the laws around electric scooters. We’ll look at the UK e-scooter laws, including electric scooter regulations and safety requirements, as well as how to make personal injury claims for e-scooters.
Are electric scooters legal in the UK?
Are electric scooters legal? That depends on what kind of e-scooter we’re talking about, whether it’s a private electric scooter or a public one:
Private electric scooters
Private e-scooters are those that can be bought and used by private individuals. Whilst private e-scooters can be used on private property (with the owner’s permission), they can’t be used on most public roads, pavements or cycle lanes. To be clear, it’s against the law to use a privately owned e-scooter on any public land. And if you’re caught doing so, you can be prosecuted.
This is because private e-scooters are classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), which fall under the same legal framework as motor vehicles in the UK. To be made road legal, a PLEV must have insurance, tax, be registered and have an MOT – which is currently not possible for e-scooters.
Rental electric scooters
Rental e-scooters are electric scooters that can be rented by members of the public in certain areas. Since 2020, the UK government has been trialling e-scooters in select places, meaning they can be ridden on public roads and cycle lanes, but only within those designated places – you can find out where those areas are here.
In order to rent a public e-scooter, you’ll have to:
- Have the category Q entitlement on your driving licence.
- Display L plates if you only have a provisional licence.
- Drive only in the designated area.
- Drive only on the road (except motorways) and in cycle lanes, but not on pavements.
- Keep to the maximum speed limit of 15.5mph (or slower where lower speed limits are required).
Read the government guide to riding e-scooters, more e-scooter advice from the police and practical e-scooter safety tips.
What are the consequences of using an e-scooter illegally?
Using an e-scooter unlawfully, such as riding a private e-scooter on public roads, can have serious repercussions. Riders can face:
- A fixed penalty fine of £300 or more.
- Penalty points being added to their driving licence.
- The scooter being seized and impounded by the police.
Reckless or dangerous e-scooter use can result in more severe penalties, including criminal charges. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs for instance, could lead to a court conviction, heavy fines, and even a disqualification from driving.
Safety risks and accident statistics for e-scooters
E-scooters, while convenient and environmentally friendly, pose notable safety risks. Riders lack physical protection, making them vulnerable to collisions and falls. Common hazards include:
- Limited visibility to others: E-scooters are small and can be hard for drivers to spot, especially at night.
- Instability: Uneven terrain or potholes can easily cause a rider to lose balance.
- Lack of protection: Riders are likely to be thrown from e-scooters during accidents, leading to potentially serious injuries, even at low speeds.
Research and statistics have revealed relatively high rates of accidents since electric scooters have been in use. In the UK in 2022, there were 1,492 accidents involving e-scooters, 440 of which were serious, and 12 of which caused fatalities (11 scooter riders died and 1 pedestrian). E-scooter accidents have seriously hurt pedestrians, cyclists, and motorbike riders, with pedestrians the most likely to be injured after the e-scooter riders themselves.
What to do if you’re injured in an e-scooter accident
If you’ve been involved in an e-scooter accident, whether as a rider or as someone harmed by an e-scooter rider, taking immediate action can strengthen your case for compensation. Here’s what you should do:
- Report the incident: Inform the police so that the incident is recorded, and if applicable, the e-scooter rental company.
- Seek medical attention: Get any injuries treated immediately. Even if you only have minor injuries, see a doctor to get a professional diagnosis. Take note of what the doctor says and what treatments you’re recommended.
- Collect evidence: Take photographs of the accident scene, any injuries, and any damage caused. Write an account of what happened whilst the incident is still fresh in your mind.
- Gather witness details: If there are bystanders who saw the incident, ask for their contact information and whether they’d be willing to give you a witness statement.
- Consult legal experts: Contact an experienced personal injury lawyer for guidance on your rights and any potential compensation claims you can make.
How Injury Lawyers 4U can support e-scooter accident claims
Understanding the laws around e-scooters in the UK will help avoid legal trouble and ensure the safety of both riders and members of the public. If you’ve been involved in an e-scooter accident, and you feel someone else was at fault, Injury Lawyers 4U is ready to guide you through the electric scooter accident claim process and to fight for your rights.
We have over 20 years of experience helping people make successful personal accident claims, and have expertise in emerging areas of compensation, such as personal injury claims for e-scooters, pedestrian injury claims, cycling related injury claims, and road traffic accident claims. With our no-win, no-fee promise, you won’t pay a penny unless your claim is successful, meaning you face no financial risk.
Call us on 0333 400 4445 or fill in a contact form and we’ll get back to you promptly.