The law on e-scooters: where are we now?

Since the launch of the Government’s e-scooter trial in the West of England in 2020, the use of e-scooters across Bristol has become increasingly popular with the majority of users aged 18-35.

With the e-scooter trial coming to an end in May 2026, we reflect on where we are now with the e-scooter trial and look at the laws on electric scooters.

What is the e-scooter trial?

The Government’s trial of running e-scooters came into force in 2020 across various locations in the UK including the West of England. The electric scooter trial was introduced to help relieve pressure on public transport (whilst the Covid-19 pandemic was happening) and to make travelling more accessible as an alternative to driving.

The Department for Transport extended the trial until May 2026 to learn more about their usage, safety, and environmental impact, and to consider whether they are affecting changes in travel patterns.

What happens at the end of the e-scooter trial?

At the end of the trial period, (which has been extended four times since 2020), it is hoped that the Department for Transport will have the relevant data to understand any issues and objections to legalising e-scooter use on the region’s roads.

If viable, electric scooters could become a permanent sustainable option for travel in the South West.

Are e-scooters legal?

E-scooters registered by the Department for Transport which have been leased or hired by the local authority for the trial are legal. E-scooters in the West of England are currently operated by Dott (formerly TIER) after taking over from VOI in 2023.

Privately owned e-scooters are legal to own, however, the use of them on public land is illegal. If you get caught using a private e-scooter on public roads, it could result in points on your licence, losing your licence and/or receiving a fine.

E-scooter laws

There are different laws for trial e-scooters and privately owned electric scooters.

Rented e-scooter rules

The rules for Dott e-scooters include:

• The maximum speed allowed is 15.5 mph.
• E-scooters can only be used on the road (except motorways), cycle lanes or tracks.
• Riders must not be under the influence of alcohol, medication, drugs and/or any other substance that could prevent safety.
• Head injuries will not be covered for personal injury claims under their insurance policy if a helmet was not worn.

Privately-owned e-scooter rules

If you own an electric scooter, you can only use it on private land and only with the permission of the landowner. This means you cannot scoot on publicly owned roads and pavements.

Case study | £7,500 for e-scooter accident claim

What happens if I’m hit by an e-scooter?

If you are injured in an accident involving an electric scooter, whether as a cyclist, pedestrian or another road user, you may be able to claim compensation.

You may also be able to claim compensation if the rental e-scooter you were using was faulty at the time of your accident, or if the road surface was dangerous, such as being poorly maintained or having potholes.

Further information

According to police figures, trial and private e-scooters are linked to around 100 serious road traffic accidents a year in Bristol.

If you have been injured in an e-scooter accident that wasn’t your fault, you might be able to claim compensation for your injuries. To speak to one of our road accident lawyers for a no-obligation consultation, call 0117 325 2929 or fill out our online enquiry form.