Thousands of people across the UK are illegally riding private e-scooters on public roads, largely due to widespread confusion and retailers failing to explain the law, new government data has exposed.
Shocking Rate of Non-Compliance in Retail
Figures released by Transport Minister Simon Lightwood show a startling level of disregard for e-scooter regulations among sellers. In the 12 months to the end of April, officials from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) conducted 47 visits to e-scooter retailers.
Of these inspections, 42 discovered the devices were being sold either illegally or without providing adequate information about legal restrictions. This means nine out of ten checks uncovered unlawful sales practices.
Mr Lightwood attributed this high rate to "poor levels of compliance being found in the online marketplace", noting that surveillance had focused more on online sales due to shifts in how these products are marketed.
The Clear but Ignored UK Law
The legal situation for e-scooters in Britain is unambiguous but frequently misunderstood. Privately owned e-scooters can only be used legally on private land with the landowner's permission. Using them on public roads, pavements, or cycle lanes remains illegal.
The only e-scooters permitted on public roads are those part of official government-approved rental trials, which operate in selected towns and cities across England. These approved rental scooters have built-in safety features, including a maximum speed limit of 12.5mph and a compulsory bell or horn.
AA Warns of Law-Breaking and Misunderstanding
Edmund King, president of the AA, said it was reassuring that the DVSA was actively investigating sales. However, he highlighted the stark reality on the streets: "Either that message is misunderstood or thousands of people are openly breaking the law, as the sight of non-rental e-scooters on the roads is a common occurrence."
He urged for clearer legislation, stating: "The sooner legislation is introduced governing the safe design, top speeds and use of e-scooters the better, as currently the uncertainty amongst the public and with retailers is leading to dangerous products used unsafely on highways."
Ongoing Trials and Future Legislation
The government's road safety strategy confirms that the Department for Transport is continuing to gather evidence through extended e-scooter trials. These trials enforce strict safety rules while officials assess the case for future permanent laws that could regulate the safe use of privately owned e-scooters.
For now, the law is clear, and the high rate of non-compliant sales suggests many riders may be unwittingly risking fines and penalty points by using machines they believe are legal for road use.
