As the Christmas holidays approach, the Safer Essex Roads Partnership (SERP) is again warning that private e-scooters are illegal on public roads and pavements and pose serious safety risks.
Following on from the Partnership’s autumn advice, the SERP warns that children and young people are particularly vulnerable on e-scooters, which can reach high speeds and require advanced balance, hazard perception and road awareness, and demand the skills and experience that require a driving licence to use safely, making the use of private e-scooters a significant safety hazard, especially when used near traffic, pedestrians, or crossings.
If a child is stopped by Essex Police officers and there is suspicion that a parent or carer has purchased an e-scooter for them and allowed its use on the highway, the parent may be investigated for causing or permitting a traffic offence. This can result in a £300 fine, penalty points, and in some cases prosecution. It is also likely that the e-scooter will be seized. Private e-scooters are not subject to safety standards and are increasingly linked to serious injuries on Essex roads.
Will Cubbin, Partnership Manager at the Safer Essex Roads Partnership, said: “Most parents set a brilliant example, and we encourage every family to keep modelling safe choices. Please do not let your child be at risk; e-scooters are not safe for children and cannot be used legally in public spaces. Young riders are especially at risk because they lack the experience and skills needed to manage speed, traffic and hazards. Parents also need to be aware that enforcement action, including fines and vehicle seizure, can fall to them.”
In Essex, only government-approved Voi rental e-scooters are legal to use and these can only be ridden by adults aged 18 or over who hold a valid driving licence. Any other privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on public roads, pavements and cycle lanes.
For clear guidance on e-scooter laws and safety advice, visit: https://saferessexroads.org/e-scooters/
