Police warn about use of e-scooters on public land

Devon and Cornwall Police are warning people that e-scooters can only be used on private land with the owner's permission. 

E-scooters, sometimes called electric scooters, are growing in popularity and use. But, did you know you can only ride them on private land where you have the land owner’s permission, or on public roads and in cycle lanes where there is an approved government rental trial?

With more and more of them being used on public land, make sure you know where you can use one or you may find yourself committing an offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and, if ridden on the pavement, the Highway Act 1835.

What you need to know:

• The only place you can ride a privately owned e-scooter is on private land with the landowner’s permission.
• It is against the law to ride an e-scooter on any public land. This includes pavement’s, cycle lanes, beach promenades, bridleways, or any publicly accessible land such as parks and car parks.
• An e-scooter is classed as a powered transporter and they are treated as a motor vehicle and fall under the Road Traffic Act 1988. They are subject to the same legal requirements as motor vehicles. This includes MOT, tax, licensing, insurance, and specific construction regulations.
• If you are caught using a powered transporter (e-scooter) on a public road, pavement, or other prohibited space you are committing a criminal offence and could be prosecuted.
• Your e-scooter could be seized, you could end up with a fine, penalty points or even disqualification from driving.

The Government is running trials for renting e-scooters. Of course none are near the South Hams (isn't that always the way?) but the closest one is in Somerset if you fancy a trip after lockdown lifts:  www.gov.uk/guidance/e-scooter-trials-guidance-for-users