In the era, where electric scooters are replacing petrol scooters, the use of the former is illegal in the United Kingdom. Recently, some notable updates were introduced in this regard. So, let’s find out more about the electric scooter UK law change in 2023. We will guide you through the rules and the regulations so that you might follow these and avoid penalties.

Electric Scooter UK Law Changes in 2023

While thousands of electric scooters are used daily in European cities like Paris, the legal position of e-scooters in the UK has made it difficult for their popularity to expand in UK cities. Before exploring the electric scooter UK law change in 2023, you should try to understand the legal status of e-scooters here.

Are Electric Scooters Legal on UK Roads in 2023?

No, as of July 2023, it is illegal to use privately owned electric scooters on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes, cycle paths, or in other public spaces in the UK.

On private property, electric scooters can only be used legally with the consent of the owner. However, it is legal for you to purchase, sell, and own an electric scooter. The UK government is undertaking tests, or National Monitoring and Evaluation Programs, in 31 different parts of the country. Rental electric scooters are allowed during the trials on sidewalks and bike lanes, but not on highways.

Also Read: From Futuristic E-Bikes to Innovative Solutions: Micromobility Europe 2023’s Must-See Highlights

Where are E-Scooters Allowed in the UK?

To ride an E-scooter in the UK, you need to meet all the standard requirements for motor vehicles, even during the trial period. Here are the places where trials are allowed in the UK:

  • Buckinghamshire (Aylesbury, High Wycombe and Princes Risborough)
  • Liverpool
  • Bournemouth and Poole
  • Cheshire West and Chester (Chester)
  • Great Yarmouth
  • London (participating boroughs)
  • Cambridge
  • Essex (Basildon, Braintree, Chelmsford, and Colchester)
  • Derby
  • Gloucestershire (Cheltenham and Gloucester)
  • Solent (Isle of Wight, Portsmouth, and Southampton)
  • North Devon
  • Milton Keynes
  • North and West Northamptonshire (Northampton, Kettering, Corby, and Wellingborough)
  • Nottingham
  • Norwich
  • Oxfordshire (Oxford)
  • West of England Combined Authority (Bristol and Bath)
  • Newcastle
  • Tees Valley (Hartlepool and Middlesbrough)
  • York
  • Salford
  • Somerset (Taunton, Minehead, and Yeovil)

E-scooters have a maximum speed of 15.5mph and this applies to trial e-scooters as well. In certain trial areas, there might be even lower speed limits for e-scooters.

Also See: Different Types of Micromobility Revolutionizing Urban Travel

What Happens if You Get Caught Riding an E-Scooter in the UK?

Riders in the UK, who are detected operating an electric scooter on a public road will be subject to a fine of up to £300 and six points on their license (if they have a driving license).

In the event of court proceedings, the rider may be subject to an unlimited fine, driving disqualification, and the possibility of their electric scooter being impounded by the police.

Penalties for e-scooter violations:

  • Riding on the pavement: around £50 fine
  • Riding without the correct license: up to £100 fine
  • Riding through red lights: about £100 fine and possible penalty points
  • Using a mobile device while riding: nearly £200 fine and six penalty points
  • Driving under the influence: court-imposed fines, driving ban, and possible imprisonment.

Note: Riding a privately owned e-scooter on a public road is a criminal offense, leading to prosecution. Antisocial use in public may result in vehicle seizure under the Police Reform Act (Section 59).

After understanding all these consequences, let’s also see the electric scooter UK law change in 2023.

Also Read: Fueling the Debate: Electric Scooter vs Petrol Scooter

What Changes Have Been Made to Electric Scooter Law in 2023 UK?

In the UK in 2023, there have been a few changes to the electric scooter rules.

1. The government has expanded the trials: The government has expanded the rental e-scooter trials in a number of UK cities and towns. The trials, originally scheduled to conclude in November 2022, have been postponed to May 2024.

2. Private e-scooter laws are still under review: The law governing personal e-scooters is still under revision by the government. There is no assurance that the law will be altered to permit personal e-scooters to be used on public roadways.

3. New regulations for rental e-scooters have been put in place by the government. Among these guidelines are-

  • Rental e-scooters are restricted to a maximum speed of 15.5mph.
  • E-scooters for rent must be used on the road or in bike lanes, not on sidewalks.
  • Renter e-scooter users must be older than 16 and have a valid driver’s license with category Q entitlement.

As we have provided you with the ultimate guide to the UK laws regarding E-scooters, you should follow the guidelines if you ride an e-scooter in the UK. Otherwise, you will have to face legal action.

Source: E-scooter trials: guidance for users

Share.
mm

Olivia is committed to green energy and works to help ensure our planet's long-term habitability. She takes part in environmental conservation by recycling and avoiding single-use plastic.

Leave A Reply