Cracking Down on Illegal E-Scooter Use: An Important Operation for Safety
This week marks the launch of an important operation aimed at addressing the illegal use of privately owned e-scooters across our county. As these devices grow in popularity, it’s crucial to ensure everyone understands the laws surrounding their use and the potential dangers involved.
The Operation in Action
Local officers are actively visiting schools, shops, and community hubs to engage with the public. Through these visits, they’re raising awareness about the risks and legal implications of using e-scooters in public spaces.
Privately owned e-scooters are classified as “Powered Transporters” under the law, which means they are treated like motor vehicles. However, obtaining insurance for privately owned e-scooters is currently not possible. This lack of insurance makes it illegal to use them on roads or in public spaces, such as parks, pavements, and shopping centres.
What Does the Law Say?
If an e-scooter is used in any public place, it can be seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 for not having insurance. To ensure compliance and safety, our operation will unfold in three key phases:
- Phase One – Engagement and Awareness
Officers will educate communities on the laws surrounding e-scooters. The focus is on creating awareness, especially among young people, parents, and guardians, to prevent illegal use. - Phase Two – Enforcement
Starting on 16th December, officers will proactively seize e-scooters being used illegally during their regular patrols. While the focus remains on education, this phase emphasises the seriousness of abiding by the law. - Phase Three – Prosecution
Beginning in the new year, the operation will escalate where necessary to criminal prosecutions. This includes holding adults accountable if they facilitate the illegal use of e-scooters by minors, such as parents, guardians, or schools that allow their storage for such purposes.
A Message for Parents and Guardians
As Christmas approaches, many young people may be excited about the prospect of receiving an e-scooter as a gift. However, it’s important to note that illegal use could result in the device being seized—an upsetting experience we want to help families avoid.
We’re also working closely with local retailers to ensure they display correct warning notices and inform buyers of the laws surrounding e-scooters.
How You Can Help
We encourage you to share this information widely with teachers, parents, guardians, and young people through any electronic means available. Additionally, we’ve attached a leaflet to help spread the message further.
Together, we can ensure our community is safe and informed. If you have any questions about this operation or the laws surrounding e-scooters, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me directly at Christopher.Bradbury@staffordshire.police.uk.
Thank you for your cooperation and support in making our community safer for everyone.
