The last few months have seen a rise in the use of electric scooters on the county’s roads and you may have received or given one as a gift this Christmas.
Do you know the rules?
The rules for private e-scooters have not changed. It is against the law to use a privately owned e-scooter in a public place or on a public road. If you use an e-scooter illegally:
- you could face a fine
- you could get penalty points on your licence
- the e-scooter could be seized and not returned
The only e-scooters legally allowed on the road are those that are available for rent in trials within the Taunton and Yeovil areas.
To be able to hire and ride these scooters you will need to be the holder of a Driving Licence with a cat Q entitlement and if you have a provisional licence you do not need to display ‘L’ plates.
The e-scooters must be insured however this is provided by the rental company.
For safety you should only use the e-scooter on a road (not Motorways) or cycle lane, you must not ride them on the pavements.
Other safety rules for trial e-scooter users
- E-scooters should only be used within the local area hosting the trial.
- E-scooters should be used by one person at a time.
- You must not tow anything using an e-scooter.
- You must not use a mobile phone when using an e-scooter.
- You may use a screen to display navigation information, but this must be set up prior to setting off.
- Always ensure bags or other small items you are carrying will not cause a danger to you or others around you – for example, never hang them from the handlebars.
- You should not ride an e-scooter while drunk or otherwise intoxicated; you may be prosecuted under drink or drug driving laws. Careless and dangerous driving offences also apply to users of e-scooters.
- You should wear a cycle helmet when using an e-scooter. Helmets are recommended but are not a legal requirement.
- Ensure you follow the rules of the highway code
For further information visit the Avon & Somerset Police website and search e-scooters or contact Somerset Road Safety for further advice.
