E-scooter riders risk losing licence

Police are warning e-scooter users they lose their driving licence if they use the devices in public places.

The warning comes as eight people were stopped riding the-scooters in the city centre by Lincoln Neighbourhood Policing officers conducting active patrols last Wednesday and Thursday (May 14 – 15). 

Their scooters were seized and the riders will be reported for driving a motor vehicle without insurance – an offence that carries up to six penalty points.

Accumulating 12 points on a driving licence usually leads to disqualification so e-scooter offences can impact that that total.

PC Will Cawte was part of the enforcement team last week and explained that while e-scooters can be brought legally it is illegal to ride them in most places.

“We get that it’s not a simple topic and that’s why as well as enforcing the law around e-scooters – something our local residents and businesses say is an issue for them – we also want to share details on the legal ramifications of using these e-scooters.

 “It’s a really difficult thing to help people understand, because they can buy one in the shop, but then they can’t use it in any public places in this country. It's important to ensure everyone – particularly if you are a parent or carer – understand and follow the current rules and regulations, because it could be you at risk of being reported, and a young person could even end up with points on a ghost licence, which is another word for a licence they don’t yet hold. 

"This is because e-scooters are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the same rules apply to them as other vehicles, meaning you have to have insurance, but at present, there is no way to get insurance for a private e-scooter. 

"If you own one, you can only use it in on private land, such as in a garden, but you must have the permission of the landowner to do so. 

PC Cawte added the enforcement action had received a positive reaction from the public with people thanking officers.

“While we have been in the city centre targeting e-scooters, the positive feedback from the public and local businesses has been incredible, and we are so pleased they have approached us to share it.”