Are Electric Scooters And Skateboards Legal
Are Electric
Scooters and
Skateboards
Legal?
Electric scooters and electric skateboards are the latest trends to sweep the nation. They are easy to use, environmentally friendly and, let's face it, a lot of fun!
E-scooters and electric skateboards have been around for years, but with calls for us all to be greener and more conscious of our impact on the environment, they have never been more popular. With makes such as Micro and JD Bug available in-store and online, adults and children alike have a wide range of exciting, stylish models to choose from. However, many people are still confused as to the regulations and laws surrounding e-scooters and e-skateboards in the UK. Below we have laid out some of the frequently asked questions to help you get up to speed before you make that exciting new purchase.
What are e-scooters and e-skateboards?
Electric scooters and e-skateboards are motorised versions of the traditional scooter and skateboard. With speeds reaching 30 mph and over (depending on the model you buy), they are a lot quicker than their predecessors and therefore need to be used with care and safety in mind at all times.
Are e-scooters and e-skateboards legal in the UK?
Unfortunately, at the present time, it is illegal to use an e-scooter or e-skateboard on UK roads and pavements, as they are partly powered by a battery motor, making them Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEV) by the Department for Transport. However, it is legal to use them on private property (with the land owner's permission, of course).
There is hope that the UK government will soon change the law on this and allow e-scooters and e-skateboards to be used on the roads as part of their ongoing work to reduce our carbon footprint and be more environmentally friendly.
Campaigners are regularly lobbying to overturn the slightly archaic rule currently in place. A friendly protest outside Downing Street recently took place with its organiser saying, “We want there to be legislation around this that will make it safer for people and we basically want people to have the option of choosing a green mode of transport rather than using, for example, diesel buses or cars."
Why are e-scooters and e-skateboards so popular?
E-scooters and e-skateboards are so popular now because they are a slicker, quicker version of the push scooters and skateboards. Being partly battery operated, they produce zero emissions, making them a greener option for many.
Do you need a licence to use an e-scooter or e-skateboard?
No. As it is illegal to use an e-scooter or e-skateboard on the road, you do not need a licence to use them.
Do you need to tax and insure your e-scooter or e-skateboard?
No. Because they aren't allowed on public roads, you do not need to tax or insure them. However, as with all valuables, it is always worth considering getting insurance to cover damage, loss or theft of your electric scooter or skateboard.
How can you use an e-scooter or an e-skateboard safely?
It is recommended that users wear helmets and pads for the arms and knees to prevent injury. As they are illegal on UK roads and pavements, it is suggested that you find somewhere private and gain permission from the owner. UK law will hopefully change soon and allow users to ride on roads and pavements as a viable option for your daily commute to and from work and school.
