POLICE in Sussex have issued a reminder that e-scooters remain illegal on roads, pavements and cycle lanes - and riders could be issued with a fine for breaking the rules.
Crawley Police have said that while it is not illegal to buy an e-scooter, people should be mindful of the law when considering a purchase.
In a post on Facebook, the force clarified their stance on the scooters.
A spokesman said: “A reminder to those tempted to buy or use e-scooters in Sussex is clear; you can buy one but you can’t ride it on a public road, cycle lane or pavement.
“E-scooters are classified as personal light electric vehicles (PLEVs), so they are treated as motor vehicles and subject to the same legal requirements, such as: MOT, licencing tax and insurance.
“As e-scooters do not have number plates, signalling ability and don’t always have visible rear lights, they can’t be used legally on the roads.
“Section 59 of the Police Reform Act allows police to give road users a warning if they are reporter to have used their vehicle in a manner which causes alarm, distress or annoyance.”
- READ MORE: E-scooters illegal on Sussex roads, pavements and cycle lanes
- READ MORE: Here are the current e-scooter rules in the UK
Earlier this year, Sussex Police also confirmed that while e-scooters can be used on privately owned land,they are illegal for use elsewhere.
Sussex Police have previously told The Argus that officers will "engage with and educate individuals on the legislation around the use of e-scooters" if they catch people riding them anywhere other than private land.
The force said punishments could vary depending on the offence committed by the rider.
Examples of offences which could be committed by riders include:
• Driving with no insurance (a fine of up to £300 and six penalty points)
• Driving with no driving licence (a fine of up to £1,000 and between three and six penalty points)
• Driving with no MOT (a fine of up to £1,000)
A Sussex Police spokesman said the maximum penalty which can be issued to an e-scooter rider is "variable".
But he confirmed that they would be treated as drivers if caught.
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