If you’re prepared to illegally ride your electric bike, scooter or motorcycle, prepare to have it seized and destroyed.
This is the message police are issuing to riders in a bid to crackdown on the dangerous and antisocial use of these vehicles in public.
From Sunday (1 November), a new procedure for e-scooters, illegal e-bikes, e-motorcycles and unregistered off-road motorcycles will come into effect across Surrey Police and Sussex Police.
It introduces a ‘no returns’ approach for eligible vehicles seized by police, ensuring that vehicles being used unlawfully on our roads and in public spaces are removed from circulation and prevented from being used again.
The change has been developed in response to increasing concern from communities about the dangers posed by illegally-used powered vehicles, including their involvement in road traffic offences, antisocial behaviour and criminal activity.
The policy change relates to:
- E-scooters being used on public roads or in public places
- Illegal e-bikes that do not meet Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) regulations
- E-motorcycles being ridden unlawfully
- Unregistered off-road motorcycles being used on roads, public land or other prohibited locations
Once seized, vehicles will be assessed and processed in line with the new guidance and, where appropriate, destroyed.
Superintendent Jo Grantham, head of roads policing for Surrey Police and Sussex Police, said: “The use of these high-powered machines is a growing concern for our communities, and that’s why we have stepped up our patrols to target offenders and keep all road users safe.
“It doesn’t matter if you were just travelling to school or work, or if you are just riding for fun. The bottom line is e-scooters are illegal to use in public – unless through an authorised rental scheme – and e-bikes and e-motorbikes must meet legal requirements; both can pose a significant risk to all road users when used illegally or irresponsibly and riders need to understand the consequences of their actions.
“This could include a criminal record, a driving ban, or worse still, seriously injuring or killing yourself or someone else.
“If you are caught, be in no doubt that your vehicle will be seized and destroyed.”
Previously, officers used their discretion depending on the circumstances when stopping a rider using an e-vehicle, which may have included issuing words of advice rather than a seizure.
But despite this change in policy, officers are keen to educate the public and prevent vehicles from being seized and destroyed in the first place.
Supt Grantham added: “We know these vehicles aren’t cheap, and we’re working with young people, parents, schools, colleges and communities to provide education – before enforcement action is necessary.
“If you witness dangerous or illegal riding in your community, report it to us. Your information helps us target our activity where it’s needed the most.”
The change supports the recent launch of Operation Scramble, dedicated to tackling criminality involving e-bikes and e-scooters, and keeping all road users safe.
Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner Lisa Townsend said: “The message is simple – illegal e-bikes and e-scooters are not welcome in Surrey. These high-powered machines can be incredibly dangerous when ridden in public places and residents across the county have told me they have had enough.
“That is why our police teams are getting tough on their reckless use in our communities. From now on if you are caught riding one in Surrey, it will be seized and you won’t be getting it back.”