The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Humberside has teamed with Humberside Police to launch a new campaign to educate on the legalities and dangers of e-scooters.
Targeted at children, parents and guardians ahead of the Christmas period, the ‘Is It Wheely Worth It’ campaign will see increased social media activity, days of action, school visits and an overall crackdown on those using e-scooters on public paths and roads.
While e-scooters seem an exciting ‘toy’ to receive on Christmas Day, they are in fact not a toy at all. There are strict rules around e-scooters due to the speed they can travel, and a lack of awareness of the law cannot only put the rider at risk, but other road users and pedestrians too.
Under UK law, riders must hold a valid driving licence to use an e-scooter. However, even with a licence, e-scooters are illegal to use on public roads and paths and can only be ridden on private land with the landowner’s permission.
If you are spotted on public roads riding an e-scooter, the device will be seized and destroyed. A waste of money ahead of Christmas, right?
Police and Crime Commissioner for Humberside Jonathan Evison said: “When it comes to e-scooters, the facts are very simple. They are dangerous and it is illegal to ride them in public places.
“The best-case scenario for anyone caught with an e-scooter is having their device confiscated and destroyed, rendering them a significant waste of money. With more serious punishment a distinct possibility, the cost to the rider could be even greater.
“Injuries from e-scooter use are a growing trend in our A&E departments and, unfortunately, there have been deaths elsewhere in the country. The damage caused to riders and pedestrians by a collision can be catastrophic.
“My surveys consistently see e-scooter use named as the top concern for the public across the Humber region and we must take measures to end this issue. While the police are using all means at their disposal to deal with riders, the issue begins at purchase, and they simply should not be bought if they are to be used in public.
“The message is clear. E-scooters are not worth it.”
Inspector Pete Musgrave, Humberside Police’s lead for Operation Yellowfin, an operation targeting vehicle related crime and anti-social behaviour, said: “E-scooters are increasingly being seen as a popular gift for children and young people, particularly in the run-up to Christmas, but it’s important that people understand they are not toys and there are strict laws governing their use.
“We want parents and guardians to be fully aware of the rules before buying an e-scooter as a gift, as privately owned e-scooters cannot legally be ridden on public roads or pavements.
“Beyond the legalities, there are also significant safety consideration as they pose a risk to not only their own riders, but other road users, and pedestrians.
“We want young people to enjoy Christmas safely, and that starts with understanding the risks and making informed choices.
“One hit of a kerb and the consequences could be life changing. You wouldn’t buy a motorbike for your child, so why an e-scooter?
“Our message is simple: before you buy one, know the law, know your ride, is it worth it?”
