Illegal e-scooters and e-bikes targeted in national day of action

Officers seized 26 illegal e-scooters, high-powered e-bikes and off-road motorbikes on Saturday 6 June during a national day of action focused on improving road safety. Two stolen mopeds were also recovered.

Inspector Jason Baxter, Head of Roads Policing, said: “This operation allowed us to target those using e-scooters and high-powered e-bikes illegally.

“It was a busy day, and we hope it is clear that we will continue to take action against vehicles being used unlawfully. On this occasion offences were seen in Lincoln ,Skegness, Boston, and Grantham”

“Officers also dealt with a number of other offences during the operation. The riders of the illegally ridden e-scooters and e-bikes will be reported for having no insurance and no driving licence.

“In Grantham a 32-year-old-man was arrested on suspicion of riding one of the e-bikes under the influence of drugs. He has since been released under investigation while inquiries continue.

“In addition, a car driver, a man in his 30’s was stopped in the Skegness area and reported for offences including disqualified driving, failing to stop and driving without insurance—highlighting the wider road safety focus of the day.”

Riders of the seized e-scooters and illegal e-bikes have been reported for offences including no insurance and driving without a licence, as these vehicles are classed as motor vehicles.

Inspector Baxter added:

“We regularly receive reports of riders using e-scooters dangerously around traffic and pedestrians. This behaviour puts others at risk and is a concern for our communities.

“E-scooters are often seen as low risk, but they can be driven at speed, are difficult for other road users to see, and offer little protection to the rider. Their illegal use puts both riders and the public at risk.

“There are safety considerations when it comes to pursuing these vehicles, which is why we rely on information from the public. If you know who is using them or where they are being stored, please report it to us and we will act.”

Officers using drones supported officers and special constables from Neighbourhoods and Specialist Operation, providing aerial visibility and helping direct resources effectively.

In one instance, a man was seen pushing an e-scooter, which in itself is not an offence. After being advised not to ride it and informed about the use of drones, he was later seen riding the scooter and was dealt with by officers.

E-scooter laws

Privately owned e-scooters cannot currently be insured, which means they are illegal to use on public roads, pavements and other public spaces.

Anyone using a privately owned e-scooter in public risks having it seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and may be reported for offences including no insurance.

If a rider causes serious harm to another person, the incident will be investigated in the same way as a collision involving a car or motorcycle.

Electric bikes

Electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) can be used legally without a licence or insurance if they meet specific requirements, including:

• pedals that can be used to propel the bike

• a motor with a maximum power output of 250 watts

• no electrical assistance above 15.5mph

Any electric bike that does not meet these requirements must be taxed, insured and ridden in line with motorcycle laws.

Anyone with information about illegal e-scooter or e-bike use is encouraged to report it online or by calling us on 101.

For more information, visit: Advice on e-scooter usage | Lincolnshire PoliceSee less