Warning to riders as e-scooters seized in Derby

Officers have issued a warning after seizing seven e-scooters from people in the Normanton area of Derby in recent days.

E-scooter usage has increased across the country during 2021, however, it is illegal for an e-scooter to be used in a public place.

While you can use an e-scooter that is provided by the local authority as part of a government backed pilot – one of which is currently running in Derby - but any other user is running the risk of having their scooter seized.

Anyone buying a scooter from a reputable supplier will be told they are only able to use their machines on private land.

If you are found using an e-scooter in public then it can be seized and, depending on the manner of your riding, you could find yourself charged with a number of very serious offences like riding without insurance, riding under the influence or causing serious injury by dangerous riding.

Sergeant Ben Frearson, from the Normanton safer neighbour team, said: “Across the city, and wider county, we have seen a real increase in the use of e-scooters.

“While they may appear like a convenient and cheap method of transport their use is extremely limited.

"If caught riding a private e-scooter the vehicle could be seized and the rider prosecuted using the Road Traffic Act.

"Officers who come across those using e-scooters will use their professional judgement about the manner of their use and the circumstances in each individual case.

"However, if officers see an e-scooter being used in a dangerous manner then the rider will be dealt with robustly and officers will seek to prosecute them to the fullest extent.

"As with many new areas of law we will always seek to educate the public – many of whom may not realise they are committing an offence by using their machines in public.”

For more information about e-scooters, along with other forms of transport that are currently banned from public use, here: Powered transporters - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)