E-scooter rider filmed travelling on M5 motorway hard shoulder near Bristol


An e-scooter rider was filmed brazenly making their way up the hard shoulder on the M5. Footage was captured of the vehicle driving along the motorway earlier today (Monday, September 16) near junction 18A.

The footage was posted to SomersetLive's M5 Traffic and Travel Facebook group with the caption: "Why would anyone think this is a good idea?" Adding to the already dangerous act, the rider appears to be without a helmet in the video.

Eyewitness reports stated there was a 20mph speed limit enforced on the motorway at the time, as one individual noted: "It was 20 miles per hour from Avonmouth past Cribbs, the gantry said oncoming vehicle."

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Concerned drivers discussed the incident in the comments, with one highlighting: "This is getting out of hand quite a few e-scooters been stop(ped) on motorways in last 8 months."

Another added: "See this every other day. These people aren't used to driving with rules and regulations. Their standard of awareness is nonexistent."

According to government guidelines, private e-scooters are prohibited on public roads, which includes motorways. Although trial e-scooters can be ridden on roads and in bike lanes, they too have restrictions, as stated by GOV. UK: "You may use a trial e-scooter on the road (except motorways) and in cycle lanes. You must not use an e-scooter on the pavement."

Earlier this year, a man was slapped with a 20-month driving ban and ordered to cough up £533 in fines and costs after he was caught riding an e-scooter under the influence on the M5 between Taunton and Bridgwater.

We've reached out to Avon and Somerset Police for comment on the incident.