With the UK experiencing good weather in the spring and summer, many people want to use this opportunity to get outside in new and exciting ways. If you own an electric scooter, quad bike or similar mode of transportation, it’s important to understand the rules and your obligations. In this article, we set out how and where you can legally use these types of vehicles.
Powered transporters and the law
A "powered transporter" is the term used to describe vehicles such as electric scooters, segways, go-peds and hoverboards. As powered transporters are propelled by a motor, they are considered ‘motor vehicles’ and are treated as such under the law. This means they are subject to the same restrictions as regular cars and motorcycles.
If you wish to use this type of vehicle on the road, it will need to be taxed, registered, insured and have an MOT (where required). You must also hold a valid driving licence for the category of vehicle you wish to use on the road.
The vehicle must meet the legal requirements for road vehicle safety, however the majority of these vehicles do not and therefore will not be ‘road legal’.
Can I use my vehicle on the pavement?
It is a criminal offence to use a motorised vehicle on a public footpath.
Can I use my vehicle in the park?
You are not permitted to use a motorised vehicle in council areas including public parks. There is an exception to this rule where there is a designated area for use of such vehicles.
Using a quad bike or micro bike off-road
Many places have commercially operated areas allowing you to use your own quad bike or mini motorbike, or you may be able to rent them for use. You can also use them on private land provided you have the consent of the landowner.
You do not need to have a valid driving licence to ride a quad bike or micro bike off-road and you do not need to tax the vehicle for off-road use.
Where can I ride an electric bike?
Electric bikes have become increasingly popular and are known as Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs). EAPCs can be used on the road by users over 14 years of age – but the bike must meet certain requirements. You cannot use an EAPC on the pavement.
Do I need a licence to ride my electric bike?
EAPCs are not classed as motor vehicles so you do not need insurance or a driving licence to operate one. You are also not required to pay road tax on an EAPC.
Are electric scooters legal?
Electric scooters are currently subject to government trials in certain parts of the UK, and may become an efficient mode of city transportation in the near future. The government proposes the electric scooters will be permitted for use on the road (except motorways) and cycle lanes – much in the same way as bicycles and EAPCs.
What more do I need to know about using a privately-owned Electric Scooter?
- Can be used on private land with the permission of the landowner;
- Do not need to be registered, display registration plates or pay vehicle excise duty.
- E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. Which means the rules that apply to motor vehicles, also apply to e-scooters including the need to have a licence, insurance and tax.
- You must have the category Q entitlement on your driving licence to use an e-scooter. A full or provisional UK licence for categories AM, A or B includes entitlement for category Q. If you have one of these licences, you can use an e-scooter.
- If you have a provisional licence, you do not need to show L plates when using an e-scooter
- It's not currently possible to get insurance for privately owned e-scooters, which means it's illegal to use them on the road or in public spaces. If you're using a private e-scooter you risk the vehicle being seized under S.165 Road Traffic Act 1988 for no insurance.
- If you don't have a licence, or the correct licence, or are riding without insurance you could face a Fixed Penalty notice.
- When riding an e-scooter, we would always recommend wearing safety protection such high visibility clothing and a helmet and to keep to the speed limit.
What are the rules of using an Electric Scooter as part of a Government Trial?
Using an electric scooter as part of a Government trial can be different to using one privately.
Here are some other safety rules for trial e-scooter users:
- e-scooters should only be used within the local area hosting the trial
- e-scooters should be used by one person at a time.
- you must not tow anything using an e-scooter
- you must not use a mobile phone when using an e-scooter
- you may use a screen to display navigation information, but this must be set up prior to setting off
- always ensure bags or other small items you are carrying will not cause a danger to you or others around you – for example, never hang them from the handlebars
- you should not ride an e-scooter while drunk or otherwise intoxicated – you may be prosecuted under drink or drug driving laws as careless and dangerous driving offences also apply to users of e-scooters
- you should also refer to the terms of use of the e-scooter operator before renting a trial e-scooter
Unfortunately there has been increasing publicity about people losing control of their electric scooters and causing injury to others. The Department for Transport confirmed that there were 440 serious injuries as a result of e-scooters in the UK in 2022. If you suffer an injury in this way then please do not hesitate to get in touch with our Personal Injury team by emailing info@bannerjones.co.uk or call the team directly on 01246 605 133.
Photo by Ernest Ojeh on Unsplash
- Chartered Legal Executive
- Head of Personal Injury