A WARNING has been issued to people who have received an electric scooter for Christmas.

Sussex Police are reminding people that their e-scooters could be seized if they are seen riding in a public place.

The warning comes following increased concern about road safety, with frequent reports of e-scooters riding on pavements, and crime reports linked to e-scooters.

E-scooter are classed as a powered vehicle, which means they are subject to the same laws as motor vehicles, but at the moment it is not possible to register, insure or tax the e-scooters to be used on the road.

Chief Inspector Michael Hodder said: “E-scooters are becoming more widely available to purchase, and although it is illegal to ride a privately purchased e-scooter in public, they are not illegal to purchase. Many people may have bought one as a gift for Christmas.

“Riders are subject to the same laws a motorist would need to drive lawfully on the road, including the requirement to have a valid licence, insurance, registration plates and vehicle licensing, and to have the correct registration.

“E-scooters are illegal because there are currently no legal ways to register, insure or tax them.”

Officers have the power to seize vehicles under section 165 of the Road Traffic Act.

Across the country there are trials taking place, with the aim of gaining further insight into the environmental, health, and safety benefits of e-scooters.

But currently there are no areas in Sussex taking part in these trials and e-scooters remain illegal to use on public roads.

The Argus: There are public trials for e-scooters in cities in EnglandThere are public trials for e-scooters in cities in England

Chief Inspector Hodder added: “So please make sure you keep and use your e-scooter on private land only, with the owner’s permission, to ensure this does not happen to you.”

The police can seize e-scooters and penalise people further if caught riding one.

The fines which can be received are a £300 fine and six penalty points for not having valid insurance, a £100 fine and three to six points for driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

Other offences which may result in penalties include riding on the footpath, using a mobile phone, riding through red lights and drink driving offences.

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