Self balancing scooter users
take note!
OVER the last few years more and more
people have been getting use to devices like the infamous Segway "personal
transportation device", but they have come on a long way now and the
latest evolution of it, called Self Balancing Scooters are being sued the world
over. Sadly, with recent surge in sales, thanks to them becoming ever popular
among footballers and rap stars, the UK's Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has
looked into the use of them, following complaints. The authorities found that
under both European and British schemes it is illegal to ride on public roads
and also under UK laws, the pavement as well! This is down to the fact they
don't meet the requirements to be registered under either the European or
British schemes for road legal vehicles. Plus as they are powered vehicles, they
are illegal to ride on the pavement, under Section 72 of the Highway Act 1835,
England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, where the Act does not apply,
they are still illegal! The scooters then fall foul, on pavements, under the
Roads (Scotland) Act 1984, but like in other parts of the UK, they can be ridden
on private property, but only with the landowner's permission. This has also
opened up questions about Mobility Scooters and also insurance for them as well!
As although insurance for mobility scooters or power chairs is not a seen as a
legal requirement, under a EU Directive it is, as first highlighted back in
April 2015, following a EU court case decision. No matter what it is always
highly recommended you have insurance even if on private property for any
personal transportation devices, including Self Balancing Scooters and Mobility
Scooters. |