The Road Traffic Act and electric scooters.

Please always refer to any relevant legislation before buying an electric vehicle- The balance boards are a toy but may be considered an electric bike by the police authorities. Certainly the speed of our electric scooters would suggest if ridden on the road,highways or paths the police would very possible think that this is the same as a petrol motored bike. The comments below are from a police website but always consider your own authority and where you intend to use the products before purchase.

Gadgetfive.co.uk will not accept responsibility for any misuse of our products sold under any law.

Mini motorbikes and electric scooters

Many parents, young people and other riders are unaware of either the dangers or offences that may be committed.

A mini moto, moped, goped, scrambler and electric scooter are motor vehicles for the purpose of the Road Traffic Act and therefore the following legal requirements apply:

• Riders must be aged 16 or over
• Riders must hold a relevant driving licence (a learner driver must also display L-plates)
• Riders must have passed their compulsory basic training
• The vehicle must be registered with the DVLA, insured and taxed
• Riders must wear protective helmets, hold a MOT certificate and display a number plate

Mini motos, mopeds, gopeds, scramblers and electric scooters cannot be used in public parks, estates, pavements or open spaces (with out the permission of the appropriate authorities). They can only be used on private land with the direct permission of the owner, and provided noise is not excessive.

If a motor vehicle is used in a manner which causes or is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress it may be seized by the police under the Police Reform Act 2002. Once it has been seized, the owner must pay a fee currently of £105 plus £12 daily storage charge. After 21 days the vehicle may be destroyed. Offenders can be subject to prosecution, with a fine of up to £1,000.

Police and Community Support Officers can also issue an £80 Fixed Penalty Notice when the behaviour is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress

Information about the misuse of these machines can be used to obtain Antisocial Behaviour Orders, injunctions or other court orders against perpetrators who cause harassment, alarm or distress in the misuse of such machines.

Council and Registered Social Landlords may consider the misuse of mini motos, mopeds, gopeds, scramblers and electric scooters as a breach of the conditions of their tenancy and start possession proceedings.