The first step to legalize electric scooters: the British government consults the public

The British government is consulting the public on how to reasonably use electric scooters, which means that the British government has taken the first step towards legalizing electric scooters. It is reported that government departments have conducted relevant consultations in January to clarify what rules should be made for scooter riders and manufacturers to ensure that they can drive safely on British roads.

It is reported that this is part of a broader review of the country’s transportation industry. Transport Minister Grant Shapps said: “This is the largest review of transportation laws of this generation.” 

An electric scooter is a two-wheeled skateboard with a small electric motor. Because it does not take up space, it is less laborious to ride than traditional scooters, and it is more environmentally friendly, so there are many adults riding this kind of scooter on the streets.

However, electric scooters are in a dilemma in the UK, because people can neither ride on the road nor ride on the sidewalk. The only place where electric scooters can travel is on private land, and the land owner’s consent must be obtained.

According to the regulations of the British Ministry of Transport, electric scooters are “power-assisted means of transportation”, so they are considered as motor vehicles. If they are driving on the road, they need to meet certain conditions in accordance with the law, including insurance, annual MOT inspection, road tax, and license Wait.

In addition, like other motor vehicles, there should be obvious red lights, trailer plates, and turn signals behind the vehicle. Electric scooters that do not meet the above conditions will be considered illegal if they ride on the road.

The Ministry of Transportation stated that electric scooters must comply with the Road Traffic Act passed in 1988, which covers electric-assisted unicycles, Segway, hoverboards, etc.

The bill says: “Motor vehicles are legally running on public roads and need to meet different requirements. This includes insurance, compliance with technical standards and usage standards, payment of vehicle taxes, licenses, registration, and the use of relevant safety equipment.”