Parents urged not to buy e-scooters this Christmas

Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner, Matthew Barber, has urged parents not to buy e-scooters for their children this Christmas

E-scooters are increasingly being used as a mode of transport despite the fact that it is illegal to use a privately-owned e-scooter on public roads, pavements and in public spaces like parks and waterfronts.

Matthew Barber said: “People may think that e-scooters are a good way to get around, but many don’t realise that, as the law stands at the moment, privately owned e-scooters cannot be used on public land.

“Just like cars, the driver of an e-scooter needs to have a licence, insurance and tax but it is not currently possible to get insurance for privately owned e-scooters, which means it is against the law to use them on the road or in public spaces.

“I expect Thames Valley Police to be stepping up enforcement on privately owned e-scooters. If you’re using a private e-scooter you risk the vehicle being seized under S.165 Road Traffic Act 1988 for no insurance. You could also be fined up to £300 and be given six penalty points on your licence. For those caught using them under the age of 18, these penalties will be passed on to parents.

“So our message to the public this festive season is clear. Don’t buy e-scooters as Christmas presents.”

The only exception for the use of e-scooters in public places is for those hired as part of a council-accredited rental scheme.

Council rental schemes are currently operational in Aylesbury, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough, Milton Keynes and Oxford as part of a Government trial. These e-scooters can only be used in approved areas and riders must meet the minimum age limit and hold the correct driving licence in order to hire them.