'Riding these vehicles illegally puts others at real risk': Lincolnshire Police step up action on illegal e-bikes and e-scooters
Lincolnshire Police are increasing enforcement against the illegal and anti-social use of e-bikes and e-scooters across the county, following concerns raised by local communities.
Police say reports have risen of riders using pavements, travelling at high speeds and riding without helmets — behaviour that poses a danger to both riders and other road users.
Officers have warned that anyone stopped riding an illegal e-bike or e-scooter in a public place will have the vehicle seized and not returned, and may also face fines and penalty points.
Legally, an e-bike — known as an electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC) — can be used on roads and cycle paths by riders aged 14 or over, provided it has pedals, is limited to 15.5mph and displays approved markings. E-bikes that do not meet these standards are classed as motorcycles or mopeds and require insurance, tax, an MOT and the correct licence.
Privately owned e-scooters cannot currently be insured in Lincolnshire, making their use on public roads and pavements illegal.
Inspector Jason Baxter, who leads Lincolnshire Police’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “We’re asking our communities to work with us to prevent the anti-social behaviour being experienced in our towns and cities.
"Riding these vehicles illegally puts riders and others at real risk, and people need to understand they could lose the bike altogether if it’s seized.”
Members of the public are urged to report dangerous riding by calling 999 in an emergency or 101 if there is no immediate danger.