ESSEX Police is supporting a National Day of Action to tackle the illegal use of e-scooters and unsafe e-bikes.
We will join 24 other police forces across the UK as part of a coordinated initiative led by the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB).
The day will focus on raising awareness around the law, education and enforcement, with officers targeting illegal vehicles and promoting safe use of legal electric-powered transport.
The operation will be led by Essex Police’s Roads Policing Unit (RPU), working alongside Neighbourhood Policing Teams across the county.
E-scooters have become increasingly visible on roads and pavements, but there is still significant confusion about the law.
Privately-owned e-scooters cannot legally be used on public roads, pavements or cycle paths. They are only permitted on private land with the landowner’s consent.
The only e-scooters that can be used legally in public are part of government-approved rental trials, which operate in specific areas.
Therefore, using a privately owned e-scooter in public areas is illegal and will be seized.
Similarly, electric bicycles, also known as e-bikes, are becoming more common on our roads.
A legal e-bike is known as an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC). To meet the law, it must:
• Have pedals that can be used to move the bike
• Have a motor with a maximum continuous power of 250 watts
• Only provide electric assistance up to 15.5mph (25km/h)
If an e-bike exceeds these rules, for example, if it can be powered without pedalling, has a more powerful motor, or exceeds the top speed allowed, it is classed as a motor vehicle and can be seized by police.
All motor vehicles require insurance, registration and the driver or rider must have a full driving licence.
During the day of action, officers will:
• Carry out targeted enforcement against illegal e-scooters and e-bikes in public places
• Seize those being used unlawfully
• Speak with riders to explain the law and personal risks
• Raise awareness among communities about how we are tackling related antis-social behaviour
The aim is to reduce harm, prevent collisions, and ensure people understand the difference between legal and illegal vehicles.
Inspector Steve Rooney, Roads Policing Unit, said:
“Many users don’t know that private e-scooters are illegal on UK roads and pavements.
“They are often seen by the public as low-risk and a fun way to get about, but riders are often unprotected and may be young or inexperienced on our roads. Private e-scooters are not roadworthy enough to be on today’s roads.
“High speeds and illegal use in shared public spaces also puts pedestrians and other road users at risk, not just create anti-social behaviour.”
Essex Police is urging anyone using or considering buying an e-scooter or e-bike to check the law before using it.
By understanding the rules and using legal, approved vehicles, everyone can help keep Essex’s roads and public spaces safe.
Unintentional law-breaking is not an excuse if you are stopped.
For more information, visit Riding an electric scooter: the rules – GOV.UK
