Cumbria Police issue Christmas warning over e-scooter laws
Parents urged to understand legal rules and safety risks before buying electric scooters as festive gifts
As Christmas approaches, Cumbria Police are urging parents and carers to be fully aware of the legal restrictions and potential dangers associated with e-scooters before buying or gifting one this Christmas.
E-scooters are legally classified as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. This means that all rules applicable to motor vehicles—such as the requirement for a licence and insurance—also apply to e-scooters.
Currently, insurance for privately owned e-scooters is not available, making it illegal to ride them on public roads, streets, pavements, parks, or in shopping centres.
The only exception is private land, such as a garden, provided the rider has permission from the landowner. While there are certain trial areas where e-scooters can be rented legally, none of these are currently available in Cumbria.
Inspector Jack Stabler from the Road Policing Unit said:
“It remains against the law to ride a privately owned e-scooter on public roads.
“If anyone is found to be riding an e-scooter on a public road or footpath the e-scooter could be seized, your present lost and you will be reported for offences such as no insurance, driving otherwise in accordance with a licence and driving over the prescribed limit of drink or drugs. These could result in points, fine or disqualification.
“These aren’t toys and can cause serious injury to riders or other path or road users if ridden irresponsibly.”
E-Bikes: Legal Requirements:
Electric bikes (e-bikes) are legal to ride for anyone aged 14 or over, provided they meet the definition of an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC). To qualify, an EAPC must:
- Have pedals that can be used to propel it.
- Display the power output or manufacturer of the motor.
- Have an electric motor with a maximum power output of 250 watts.
- Show either the battery voltage or maximum speed of the bike.
- Not have a motor that propels the bike at speeds over 15.5 mph.
Police are encouraging anyone considering e-scooters or e-bikes as gifts this Christmas to understand the rules fully, prioritize safety, and ensure they remain on the right side of the law.