Good Afternoon Residents, 

We here at Skelmersdale Police Team hope you have been having an enjoyable and safe festive period. 

PCSO 7749 and Myself have been conducting foot patrols in and around Tanhouse & Digmoor and have engaged with many members of the public who have had a positive response to our presence. For accountability the route is shown in the attached image. #BobbyOnTheBeat

While out and about, we have noted that Santa has delivered a high amount of E-Scooters and we would like to bring your attention to the relevant laws & legislation regarding the use of such powered transporters. 🛴

Firstly, The Term “powered Transporters” covers a variety of personal transport devices which are mechanically propelled (propelled by motor) as well as or instead of manually propelled (push power). 🚗

Including: E-Scooters, Segways, Hoverboards, Go-peds, powered unicycles. 🛴

There is no specially-designed legal regime for powered transporters at this time. Meaning powered transporters are covered by the same laws and regulations that apply to motor vehicles as set out by the Road Traffic Act 1988🚗🛵

The law aims to ensure safety, consistency and environmental sustainability!

You can use Powered Transporters on Private land where the public does not have access. The permission must be sought by the land owner.

Pavements and pedestrian only-areas: It is an offence to use powered transporters on the pavement. By Section 72, Highway Act 1835 it is an offence to ride on a pavement. In addition, powered transporters are forbidden from using footpaths. 

What is a footpath?

A footpath is a public right of way over land which may only be used on foot. Powered Transporters are forbidden from using footpaths by Section 34 Road Traffic Act 1988.

The potential penalties can vary depending on the nature and gravity of the offence, and sentences can range from fines and penalty points to disqualification from driving. If used while under the influence of either(or Both) can also be convicted of offences leading to imprisonment. 

For further information please follow the link below to read more. 

https://www.gov.uk.govertment/publications/powered-transporters/information-sheet-guidance-on-powered-transporters

This topic is also being discussed further by Central Goverment and there is a call for an urgent review of legislation surrounding E-Scooters.

The purpose behind this messages is to raise awareness and spread the word of the relevant information of these frequently seen devices. 

Look out for yourself by looking out for others✔