Getting about Actively, Safely and Legally this Christmas
This year, some Christmas lists may include an e-scooter, which have become an increasingly common sight as people look for an alternative to public transport or a way to cut down on car use.
Road Safety Wales would like to inform anyone considering purchasing an e-scooter, that it is illegal to use a privately owned e-scooter on public roads, pavements or cycle paths. Please don't risk being issued with a £300 fine, 6 penalty points on your driving licence or having your new Christmas gift seized.
Additionally, for a driver who has passed their driving test in the last two years it could mean a driving disqualification and the need to re-take both the theory and practical driving test.
Teresa Ciano, Chair of Road Safety Wales said, “Trials of rental e-scooters are underway in specific parts of the UK, but elsewhere the use of an e-scooter is illegal.
“Please remember that currently in Wales, the only place to legally ride an e-scooter is on private land, with the permission of the land owner.”
More and more residents of Wales are reducing car journeys in favour of cleaner, greener transport choices. Decreasing car use, particularly for local journeys is welcomed and will improve air-quality, reduce congestion and make neighbourhoods safer and more family friendly.
While e-scooters don’t offer the freedom purchasers may think, there are many other eco-friendly methods of travel which are both encouraged by Road Safety Wales and legal.
Teresa Ciano added, “For many, walking and cycling is becoming the natural choice for everyday local journeys. The health and well-being benefits of active travel are indisputable, and an electric bicycle featuring cycling assist can be an ideal solution for hillier and longer cycling journeys.”
After a tough year for many of us, enjoying the beautiful Welsh outdoors and travelling actively, safely and legally can be on everyone’s wish list this year, but please swap the e-scooter for a gift that won’t break the law.
Gwent Police has produced a leaflet outlining the law surrounding e-scooters. It can be downloaded here.