Two electric scooters were confiscated by police in Yeovil town centre on Wednesday, August 20, as part of ongoing efforts to combat increasing anti-social behaviour linked to their use. The South Somerset Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) highlighted a growing number of incidents and near misses involving e-scooter riders and members of the public.
Police reiterated that e-scooters are legally classified as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. As such, they require a full driving license and valid insurance to be used on public roads or spaces. Currently, it is not possible to obtain insurance for privately owned e-scooters, making their use on roads, pavements, parks, and shopping areas illegal.
South Somerset NPT issued a stern warning to riders of privately owned e-scooters that they risk having their vehicles seized under Section 165 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 for operating without insurance.
READ MORE: Man Walks 100 Miles in Wooden Shoes to Honor His Late Father
READ MORE: Crash Blocks Key Bridge Near Weston-super-Mare Seafront
“Yeovil officers seized two e-scooters yesterday in the town centre,” the police stated. “We continue to be concerned by the rise in anti-social behaviour caused by e-scooter users and the potential dangers to the public. Please remember that the same rules that apply to motor vehicles also apply to e-scooters. Without proper licensing and insurance, using them on public roads or spaces is illegal. Stay safe and ride responsibly.”