North Wales Police issues warning to people considering buying e-scooters for Christmas

North Wales Police has issued a note of caution to anyone thinking of buying an e-scooter as a present this Christmas.

The region’s police force has advised that it is illegal to use a privately owned e-scooter on public roads, pavements or cycle paths.

In fact, the only place to legally ride an e-scooter in Wales is on private land with the permission of the land owner – everywhere else it is against the law.

Guidance has also been issued by Road Safety Wales urging retailers to ensure that customers are fully aware that if an e-scooter is purchased and subsequently used illegally, the rider risks being issued with a £300 fine.

They could also be given six penalty points on their driving licence and their new e-scooter could be seized.

Chief Inspector Jon Aspinall of North Wales Police said: “We know e-scooters can be popular Christmas presents but it’s important that anyone considering buying an e-scooter is fully aware that it is illegal to ride them on public roads.

“If a member of the public is caught riding an e-scooter on a public road, pavement, or cycle path, then your e-scooter will be seized, and you may be fined.

“The parents of children using e-scooters may also be responsible for any fines incurred from them being ridden illegally.

“While e-scooters can be seen as a great gift, they can reach speeds of more than 30mph and this can pose risks to pedestrians and other members of the public.

“We have already seized a number of e-scooters in recent months and we will continue to take action against anyone illegally riding an e-scooter in our communities.

“We need retailers to work with us to educate the public about the legal use of e-scooters and ensure that no one is inadvertently breaking the law.

“I would ask any member of the public who has concerns about this issue, or sees an e-scooter being driven dangerously, to report it to us via 101.

“You can also send us a direct message to our Facebook page, or alternatively you can report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Teresa Ciano, chair of Road Safety Wales, said: “Consumers may not realise that they could be affecting anyone by illegally riding an e-scooter, but they are increasingly being used on the highway and on footpaths and pavements, which is particularly concerning.

“For pedestrians of all ages, it is unacceptable that they are put at risk of being knocked over because someone selfishly chooses to ride an e-scooter illegally, with little regard for the law or for other people.

“For someone with sight or hearing loss, encountering an e-scooter being ridden on the pavement could have such an effect on them that they feel unable to go out on their own and completely lose their independence.”