There is a world of difference between the safety of e-scooters in the rental schemes and that of private e-scooters. This is highlighted in PACTS’ interim report, published 31 October, on the safety of private e-scooters.
The report, funded by The Road Safety Trust, shows that private e-scooters are unlike rental e-scooters in both their construction and use. PACTS calls on the government to acknowledge that, while the evaluation of official trials may produce information on the safety of rental schemes, it will not sufficiently inform them about the safe construction and use of private e-scooters.
This interim report is intended to highlight the information and issues revealed to date. It does not include conclusions or recommendations. PACTS are working with a team of project partners to gather qualitative and quantitative information on the safety of private e-scooter use. From that research PACTS aims to compile recommendations for the safe use and construction of private e-scooters to inform any future regulations. They will follow in the final report in early 2022.
It will be for the government to decide if the benefits of e-scooters outweigh the disadvantages. PACTS contribution is in relation to safety. Understanding the safety of private e-scooters is essential before regulations are drawn up. Evaluation of the government trials of rental e-scooters alone will not provide this information.
Download the report here: The safety of private e-scooters in the UK
Related content
Casualty data – Assessing the safety of private e-scooter use in the UK – PACTS research
Letter about interim report and reply – The safety of private e-scooters – PACTS letter to Trudy Harrison MP
Letter about e-scooters still being illegal and reply – PACTS calls on minister to remind retailers and public – using a private e-scooter is illegal in UK
Letter with PACTS recommendations – Recommendations for the construction and use of private e-scooters
