Police warning for anyone considering e-bikes and e-scooters as Christmas gifts

Police have issued a warning to remind people that buying a e-bike or an e-scooter could get them on Santa's naughty list this year.

Electric bikes and scooters have become increasingly popular in recent years, and will have made their way onto many people's wish lists this Christmas. However, Northumbria Police's Roads Policing Unit are urging people to familiarise themselves with the rules around them - or risk having their newly-gifted vehicles seized.

E-bikes (electronically assisted pedal cycles) can only be used on public highways, and require no insurance, road tax or driving licence. However, riders must be at least 14 years old.

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Electric scooters are classed as motor vehicles, meaning riders are required to have a valid driving licence and insurance. Those that are privately owned can only be used on private land with the landowner's permission. They are illegal to use on public highways and you can't get insurance to ride them on roads.

Electric scooters are widely available through rental schemes for use on public roads, such as Newcastle's Neuron scooters, with riders required to hold a provisional or full driver's licence to hire them. Electric motorbikes require riders to have a full driving licence and insurance, but can't be driven on public highways unless specifically road registered.

Inspector Phil Patterson, who heads up Northumbria Police's Road Safety Team, said: "We know many people are starting to get into the festive spirit, and have started their Christmas shopping. Each year, electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly popular item showing up on many people’s wish lists – including for children and teenagers.

"However, this comes as a timely reminder to share the laws around each vehicle type. We don’t want anyone to get caught out – especially those parents and carers who might be thinking of purchasing an electric scooter or electric motorbike for a child."

He added: "Many of these vehicles are subject to the same rules as any other motor vehicle, and we’d urge people to familiarise themselves with the law before making a big purchase.

"Some riders can also face police action in the same way any other driver might – for example, if caught under the influence of drink or drugs, driving carelessly or dangerously, or without the proper licence, insurance or tax. Everyone has a role to play in keeping our region’s roads safe – and anyone found to be flouting the law could risk facing prosecution or having their vehicles seized."