“Repeat offenders may have their e-scooter seized”
The PSNI have issued an update on the law regarding the use of e-scooters in Northern Ireland following the tragic death of a man in Lisburn as a result of an e-scooter accident.
It is currently illegal to use e-scooters in public in Northern Ireland, except on private land with permission from the landowner.
Anyone found using an electric scooter could be referred to the PPS for prosecution.
E-scooters, scramblers, go-peds, buzz boards, quads, and mini-motos do not generally comply with construction and use legislation and vehicle standards and are, therefore, restricted to off-road use only.
If used on the road, the rider would require the following:
- A driving licence from age 16 (minimum Category AM).
- At least third-party insurance for road use.
- Have the vehicle registered with the DVLNI and display a number plate.
- Have a Vehicle Excise Licence when used on the road.
- Have obligatory lamps, reflectors and rear markings fitted.
- Fulfil all requirements in accordance with the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1999.
- A protective helmet in some cases (although the wearing of a helmet in all situations is recommended for personal safety).
A PSNI spokesperson said: “Currently, it is illegal to use electric scooters on public roads and in public spaces in Northern Ireland. Electric scooters are not defined within the law, nor are they approved for on-road use.
“Anyone found using an electric scooter anywhere other than on private property, with the permission of the landowner, should expect to receive a formal warning as a minimum course of action and given the opportunity to walk their scooter home with advice on its further use.
“Repeat offenders may have their e-scooter seized as an uninsured vehicle and may be issued with fixed penalty notices or reported to the Public Prosecution Service.”
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