Avoid a costly error this Christmas

Nobody wants a ruined Christmas. The following advice from Road Safety Wales will help you to avoid buying a gift which could be seized by the Police and result in a fine and penalty points for the user. 

Before making a purchase remember, in Wales e-scooters can only be ridden legally on private land with the landowner’s permission. 

Rhys John-Howes, Chair of Road Safety Wales explains “Riding an e-scooter on the highway, pavement, or on cycle lanes in Wales is illegal. There are no rental schemes operating in Wales, so anyone using an e-scooter in this way is breaking the law. 

“Anyone considering an e-scooter as a gift needs the rider to have access and permission to ride it on private land. 

“Buying an e-scooter is likely to be an expensive error that families should avoid at all costs.” 

Road Safety Wales is also asking the public to make sure that if they intend to purchase an e-bike (electrically assisted pedal cycle/EAPC) it is road legal; if not riders could face Police action and have the bike seized and crushed. 

To be legally used on the road, an e-bike must have a maximum power output of 250 watts and should not be able to propel the bike when it’s travelling more than 15.5mph. If the bike motor goes faster than this, or does not need to be pedalled, be aware that it is not road-legal and is classed as a motorcycle. 

By law, motorcycles must be registered, taxed and insured; the rider must hold the approprite driving licence and must wear a crash helmet. 

Kayleigh Tonkins, Vice Chair of Road Safety Wales added, “Anyone looking to buy an e-bike, should carefully research the purchase before spending their hard-earned money. 

“Riders must be at least 14 years old and use the e-bike like any standard bicycle, as outlined in the Highway Code.” 

Communities across Wales have been faced with anti-social behaviour and dangerous driving concerning modified and illegal electric bikes, electric motorcycles, off-road motorcycles, and e-scooters. Road Safety Wales fully supports our Police colleagues in seizing vehicles being ridden illegally and prosecuting riders who are putting themselves and members of the public at risk. 

Dyfed-Powys Police Inspector, Dawn Fencott-Price said, “We urge everyone to think twice before buying electronic scooters for Christmas at the risk of falling foul of the law. We understand that e-scooters may seem like a fun and exciting gift idea, but it’s important to understand the rules and risks that come with them. 

“Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on public roads, pavements, or cycle paths. Their speed and silence can pose a significant danger to other road users and pedestrian safety, especially vulnerable pedestrians. 

“Many people are unaware of the restrictions on e-scooters and while retailers may be happy to sell one to you, it could be seized the moment you attempt to use it in a public place.” 

Don’t get caught out by riding illegally. Make sure you know the law on e-bikes and e-scooters. 

For further information visit: www.roadsafetywales.org.uk