E-bikes/E-scooters

E-bikes and E-scooters are becoming increasingly popular but as electric scooters are classed as a motor vehicle (Road Traffic Act 1988), the rules that apply to other vehicles also apply to electric scooters. This means they need to be insured, taxed and have a valid MOT. However, under current UK rules, it’s not currently possible to get insurance for privately owned e-scooters, so it’s illegal to use them on the road/in public spaces.

What does the law say:

Remember, if you cause serious harm to another person whilst riding an e-scooter, the incident will treated the same as if you were riding a motorcycle or driving a car.

The law says that if you’re using a private e-scooter you risk the vehicle being seized under S.165 Road Traffic Act 1988 for no insurance.

Legal use of an e-scooter:

You can legally use an e-scooter on private land if you own the land or have permission of the land owner.

Trial schemes:

Various rental e-scooter trials are currently in place across the country. If there is an official trial rental scheme in place, then it’s legal to use a rental e-scooter on a public road or cycle lane.

You must meet the following requirements to do so though:

• You must hold the correct category driving licence (Q or P/M).
• You must meet the minimum age limit. This can vary according to each provider, so you must double check this.
• You must create an account with the rental company.
• E-scooters can only be used in the approved areas.

You can stay safe with your e-bike or e-scooter with this guidance developed by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, or check out the safety videos put together by the Office for Product Safety and Standards, both of which have been translated into multiple languages to ensure the information is accessible for all.

E-scooters and e-bikes use lithium-ion batteries and over the last few years, we’ve seen an increase in the number of fires caused by these.

Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries which contain a lot of power for their size, so it’s a good idea take the necessary precautions to help prevent a fire:

• Read the safety instructions that came with your device to ensure you are using it correctly.
• Always use the charger that was provided with the device and if you need a spare or replacement, buy one from the same manufacturer
• When purchasing an e-bike, e-scooter, e-bike conversion kit, or replacement charger and batteries, only choose a branded, genuine product from a reputable retailer you can trust. There are lots of fakes out there, and it can be difficult to spot the difference.
• Don’t overload your sockets
• Charge the device on a flat, solid and stable surface, away from your planned escape route
• Never charge batteries whilst you are asleep, so that you are able to respond quickly if a fire should occur
• Once fully charged, unplug.
• Be extra careful if the device or charger hasn’t been used for some time
• Do not cover chargers or battery packs when charging, as this could lead to overheating or even a fire.
• Do not charge batteries or store your e-bike or e-scooter near combustible or flammable materials.
• Do not overcharge your battery – check the manufacturer’s instructions for charge times.
• Avoid storing, using, or charging batteries at very high or low temperatures
• Do not use if the e-bike/e-scooter or battery appears physically damaged
• If a battery is not holding charge, gets hot, bulges or you hear hissing noises – unplug immediately
• Ensure you have a smoke alarm fitted on each level of your home, including the room where the battery is being charged
• If there are any signs of fire, raise the alarm immediately, get out, stay out and dial 999.

Access more advice from the National Fire Chiefs Council

Read the latest Government advice on electric-bikes

Read the latest Government advice on e-scooters