Medway Cops Seize Illegal E-Scooters After Public Complaints
Medway’s Community Safety Unit has cracked down on illegal e-scooter riders, confiscating several scooters between Monday 21 March and Thursday 24 March 2022. Officers stopped riders flouting the law by using the vehicles on public roads without the proper licences and insurance.
E-Scooter Riders Face Tough Rules – and Seizures
E-scooters are treated like motor vehicles under UK law. That means riders must have insurance, pay vehicle tax, and hold a driving licence if they take their scooter on public roads. Violating these rules puts you at risk of losing your ride – fast.
Inspector Vanessa Foster from Medway’s Community Safety Unit said: “Our officers have responded to complaints from the public about the dangers caused by e-scooters being used illegally and in an antisocial manner.”
“In two cases we stopped adults riding the scooters while accompanied by a child, and in both cases the vehicles were seized. Riding on pavements, cycle lanes, and pedestrian-only areas is also illegal.”
“This enforcement will continue, and I would advise riders to seek permission to use their scooters on private land to avoid having their e-scooter seized when ridden on a public road.”
Legal Use of E-Scooters Still Limited
While rental e-scooters can be used legally in some cycle lanes and on roads where trial schemes are approved, private riders must stick to strict rules. For the full lowdown, the government offers guidance here.
