Police warn against buying e-scooters for Christmas

Derbyshire Constabulary is urging residents to think carefully before buying an e-scooter as a Christmas present, warning that privately owned e-scooters can only be used legally on private land.

The reminder comes a year after the force introduced a “seize first” approach to tackling the illegal use of e-scooters across the county. In the past 12 months, officers have seized more than 600 e-scooters being ridden on public roads and pavements in Derbyshire.

All seized scooters have been destroyed, with parts recycled where possible. Police say the tougher enforcement has had a positive impact, with the number of injury-related collisions involving e-scooters halving since the new approach was introduced.

Inspector Lee Welsby said officers had been proactive in reducing the risks posed by e-scooters and that concerns about their use are frequently raised by residents.

“This is an issue that often comes up in community meetings, surveys and conversations with officers on the street,” he said. “People don’t feel safe when these vehicles are pushing past on pavements or being used to enable crime in our communities.

“We’re sharing the message again ahead of Christmas - you cannot use e-scooters on public land. Please do your research and make sure all the presents under the tree can be used safely and legally.”

Under current legislation, e-scooters are classed as “powered transporters” and are treated as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. This means the same rules apply as for cars and motorcycles, including the need for a licence and insurance.

However, it is not currently possible to insure a privately owned e-scooter, making it illegal to use one on public roads, pavements, parks or shopping centres. Anyone caught using a privately owned e-scooter in public risks having it seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act.

Police also warn that serious collisions involving e-scooters are investigated in the same way as incidents involving cars or motorcycles.

There are only two legal ways to use an e-scooter: on private land with the landowner’s permission, or by renting one through an authorised e-scooter rental scheme, which currently operates in some parts of the UK.

Offences linked to illegal e-scooter use can include riding on the pavement, using a mobile phone while riding, jumping red lights or drink-driving — all of which carry fines, penalty points and, in some cases, court action. Scooters used in an antisocial manner can also be seized under the Police Reform Act.

More information and advice can be found on the Derbyshire Constabulary website by searching for “e-scooters” under road safety.