Safe scooting!
E-scooters are mechanically propelled vehicles and the only current legal road used for them is under the various hire schemes across the country. Private e-scooters cannot be used on the road. Yet, we see them every day being used. They are silent and fast and can cause harm to both the rider and the pedestrians alike when collisions occur.
So what should be done to legalise private use and make sure riders bear the same responsibility as other users of mechanically propelled vehicles on the road?
Something needs to be done because the rate of accidents involving these scooters has trebled since 2020.
A new report by the Association of Community Support Organisations has come up with a ten point plan to allow e-scooters to be used legally and more safely on the road. The plan will also provide for a means of compensation for anyone injured. The proposals include:
- Building better infrastructure to allow safer use of e-scooters.
- Training programmes for e-scooter users and changes to the Highway Code.
- An insurance scheme requiring all riders on the road to be insured.
- Registration of e-scooters by licence plates or barcoding, for instance.
- Introduction of a minimum age, perhaps sixteen.
- Introduction of a legal speed limit, perhaps 15.5 miles per hour.
- Making helmet wearing, indicators, headlamps and audible warning devices compulsory.
None of this is likely to happen very quickly, but there does seem to be a head of steam building up to introduce change and make the use of e-scooters safer for everyone.
Meanwhile, riding an e-scooter which is not a government scheme e-scooter on a road remains illegal, unless adapted to comply with very strict rules. A rider can be prosecuted for road traffic offences including:
- drink driving;
- driving without insurance;
- careless driving;
- dangerous driving.
This could result in disqualification from driving any vehicle for a period of time with all the pain that brings to work and family commitments. Anyone charged with a road traffic offence will find excellent legal advice and representation at Gotelee Solicitors.
How can our solicitors help you?
If you find yourself in need of support, then contact our experienced team – 01473 298167. Please ask for Hugh, Matthew or Joanne who will be happy to help.
