Sergeant's warning on the dangers of e-scooters

Police want to remind users of electrical scooters that it is illegal to ride them on public roads without a licence, insurance and a helmet.

Following a number of serious incidents in Teesside involving e-scooters over the past few months, Sergeant Gary Cookland of Stockton Police is warning parents of the dangers associated with them.

Sergeant Cookland said: “The increase in those using electrical scooters has become a real issue in Cleveland. Riders, who are often inexperienced road users and do not hold a driving licence, are putting members of the public at risk.

“Just today, a ban on electric scooters for hire has come into effect in Paris in response to a rise in the number deaths and injuries they have caused in the city.

“It’s important for parents to know that it is illegal to ride on public roads on these scooters without a licence. Riders should have the category Q entitlement on their driving licence to use an e-scooter.

“A full or provisional UK licence for categories AM, A or B includes entitlement for category Q, so if you have one of these licences, then you can ride an e-scooter. If you have a provisional licence, then you do not need to show ‘L’ plates when riding a scooter.

“You need motor insurance to ride an electric scooter on a public road and you should always wear a helmet.

“Police can and will seize your scooter and prosecute offenders riding illegally and dangerously. I would urge parents and riders to think carefully before purchasing electric scooters and to think about the risk to themselves and other road users.”