You may have already tried Liverpool’s e-scooters and they’re a great, quick way to get around the city, but make sure you know how to use them safely to avoid potential penalties and to keep yourself and others safe.
Before using an e-scooter, it’s important to remind ourselves of how to ride responsibly and with consideration for others. Remember that you need at least a provisional driving license to use the scooters and should take similar care as you would driving a car or riding a bike.
Here are some useful points to remember:
- Keep to roads and cycle paths– E-scooters are allowed to be used in the same places’ bicycles are, so stick to roads (30mph and under) and cycle lanes. Be mindful of others, especially people who may not be able to see or hear an e-scooter. Use the bell provided before you go past, and make sure you keep a safe distance.
- Ride sober– It might be tempting to ride an e-scooter after a few drinks but remember that an e-scooter is a motor vehicle, and riding under the influence is illegal and dangerous. It could result in prosecution, points on your driving licence, losing your licence entirely, or not being able to get one in the future.
- Don’t use your phone while riding – Similar to while driving a car, it’s important that your full concentration is on the road and environment around you. Using your phone while riding is much more likely to cause accidents.
- Ride alone – Make sure you keep to one person per scooter.
- Park sensibly– Like a bike, riding e-scooters on the pavement is illegal. Park them sensibly where they won’t be an obstruction to others, and where there’s no risk that someone might trip over them. Where available, use the marked parking bays.
- Wear a helmet– Please make sure you wear a helmet for your own safety.
Please remember that these rules are in place to help you enjoy the e-scooters safely.