Are Electric Scooters Legal?
Electric scooters or e-scooters are an emerging form of transportation, but there is a lot of uncertainty about when and where they will be legally used. With government-backed rental trials going down across the country, we thought it had been an honest time to recap the principles as they stand at once.
Are electric scooters legal within the UK and other EU countries?
Yes, electric scooters are legal to buy and use in the UK and other EU counties. However, there are many restrictions surrounding where they'll be used.
Where can electric scooters be used?
Currently, electric scooters can only be used on golf course, country road and other private land with the owner’s permission. it's effectively illegal to use them on public roads, on pavements, in cycle lanes and in pedestrian-only areas.
Why are electric scooters currently illegal on sidewalks and roads?
Electric scooters are currently classed as ‘powered transporters’ by the govt and be the identical laws and regulations that apply to all or any motorcars.
This means that it’s illegal to use them on pavements, in cycle lanes and in pedestrian-only areas, and it'd only be legal to use them on public roads if they might meet the identical requirements as cars (e.g., in terms of insurance, tax, license, registration and vehicle construction), which in practice is virtually impossible.
The creation of laws specifically covering e-scooters has been discussed for some time. it's like there could also be some developments during this area within the near future, particularly with the rental trials currently happening.
When will electric scooters become legal on sidewalks and roads?
Electric scooter rental trials are underway in an exceedingly number of areas across the united kingdom and EU countries since summer 2020. Local councils are working with rental providers to check the viability of electrical scooters as a secure and effective mode of transport.
The period has been extended until the top of November 2022 so the foremost comprehensive evidence possible may be gathered. The government may then launch another consultation phase before proposing any formal changes to the law.