Are Electric Scooters Legal in the UK?
Beginning on July 4, 2020, the UK government allows rental e-scooters legally on Great Britain roads. They come in various sizes and colours, and they have lights, reflective strips, and digital displays that show you your speed and your riding mode. It is important to understand the electric scooter UK road safety rules so that you can stay safe on the road.
Electric scooters are legal in the UK, but there are many regulations concerning where they can be used. It is illegal to use them in cycle lanes, public roads, pedestrian areas, or pavements. The government classifies them as powered transporters, so they have to follow the same rules and regulations of motor vehicles. This includes laws such as:
- Insurance
- Registration
- License
- Tax
Because electric scooters cannot meet these regulations, it is illegal to use them on the road.
What Kind of Electric Scooters Can You Use on the Roads?
Rental electric scooters can be used on the road because they can meet the same motor vehicle requirements. They have insurance, and they are often licensed. However, the government hasn’t done anything to make privately owned electric scooters legal just yet.
Will it Become Legal to Ride E-Scooters on the Road?
Parliament has decided that the government should take action to legalise the use of electric scooters on roads and in cycle lanes. They say that it will occur within 18 months. They want to make sure that scooter riders do not shift to the pavement because it is dangerous for pedestrians. Local authorities will set speed limits that are suitable for the environment. They want to facilitate electric scooters because they think it could discourage some from using their cars for short trips.