Don’t Drink and Ride: E-Scooter Drink-Driving Warning as Lockdown Ends
E-scooter riders are being slapped with a stark warning: drinking and riding is as serious as drink-driving. With pubs and restaurants reopening, the temptation to zip home after a few drinks is real – but it could lead to prison, hefty fines, and a driving ban.
Same Rules as Cars – Get It Right or Face the Consequences
Riding an e-scooter under the influence is a serious traffic offence. Thames Valley Police remind riders the legal alcohol limits are 35 microgrammes per 100ml in breath or 80mg per 100ml in blood. Those caught over the limit risk prosecution just like car drivers.
Only residents over 18 with a full or provisional driving licence can hire one of the 450 Neuron Mobility e-scooters in the borough. When signing up, riders agree to follow the Highway Code – including no drinking.
Stay Safe and Responsible – New App Features and Street Ambassadors
From 6pm daily, Neuron’s app now offers a reaction test to help riders decide if they’re fit to scoot. Plus, street safety ambassadors will patrol popular areas, offering help to first-timers and encouraging responsible riding.
Helmets aren’t compulsory but highly recommended. Riders get financial credits if they snap a helmet selfie before starting a journey. All scooters and helmets are kept clean with hospital-grade disinfectants.
E-Scooter Rules You Can’t Ignore
- Only one rider per e-scooter – no double rides
- Use roads only – pavements are off limits
- Privately owned e-scooters remain banned on public paths and roads
- Misuse or poor behaviour? Report it to Neuron 24/7 at [email protected] or call 01753 981188 with time, location, and licence plate
Pricing and Getting Started
Start your journey by scanning a QR code on the scooter with the Neuron app, available on the App Store and Google Play. It costs £1 to unlock plus 18p per minute. Frequent riders can buy passes: £15 for three days a week, £22 weekly, or £36 monthly.
Top speed is limited to 15.5mph for experienced riders and 9mph for beginners. Remember to load your driving licence details and payment card before you ride.
Officials Urge Caution Amid Post-Lockdown Freedom
“E-scooters offer a sustainable, zero-emissions option for local travel as people return to work and social life,” said Savio DeCruz, council associate director. “But riders must obey the law and behave responsibly.”
“We want people to reconnect safely, not end up with a driving ban or a trip to A&E,” said Neuron’s expansion manager George Symes. “Ride smart and stay safe.”
