Tragic First UK Pedestrian Death Caused by E-Scooter Crash
Linda “Lou” Davis, 71, was fatally injured after a collision with a teenage boy riding a privately-owned e-scooter on the pavement in Rainworth. The accident occurred on Southwell Road East at around 3.50pm on 2 June 2022.
Knocked to the ground, Lou suffered a head injury and died in hospital six days later. Authorities believe she is the UK’s first pedestrian to die in an e-scooter collision.
Teen Charged and Sentenced
The rider, a 14-year-old boy, was interviewed and charged with causing death by driving without a licence and while uninsured. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced at nottingham/" title="Nottingham" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Nottingham Youth Court on 8 March 2023.
- 12-month referral order with objectives
- 5-year driving ban
- Required to pass an extended driving test after ban
- 6-month parenting order involving Youth Offending Service sessions
- £26 victim surcharge and £85 prosecution costs
Family Pleas for Awareness and Responsibility
“This boy’s choices and actions that day took my mum’s life and changed our lives forever,” said Lou’s daughter, Rebecca Williams. “Mum was a very youthful, lively, and amazing nan… She never let her age stop her doing anything.”
“I desperately hope my mum’s case will make children and parents understand the devastating consequences of illegally riding an e-scooter before they buy or use one. What happened to my mum should never happen again.”
“People must be responsible and fully aware of the laws regarding e-scooter use. As soon as you’re riding one, you have to be responsible.”
Legal Warning and Police Statement
In the UK, it is illegal to ride privately-owned e-scooters on pavements, public roads, or cycle lanes. Only locally approved rental e-scooters can be used legally on roads by riders aged 18 or over with the proper licence and insurance.
Detective Constable Emma Temple from Nottinghamshire Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit warned:
“This tragic case shows how vitally important it is for people to fully understand e-scooter laws and usage. This was a completely avoidable collision, leaving a family devastated.”
“We will prosecute those who break the law and seize e-scooters used illegally or antisocially. Education on e-scooter laws is a key priority.”
E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles requiring insurance, taxation, and a valid licence. Riding under the influence or using a handheld device while riding can result in prosecution.
Remembering Lou Davis
Lou, described as “a vibrant soul that loved life and family fiercely,” formerly worked as a cleaner for Nottinghamshire Police before retiring around 2006. Her family continue to mourn her loss and hope her story raises caution about illegal e-scooter use.
