As Christmas approaches, e-scooters often appear on festive wish lists. They’re sleek, fun, and marketed as eco-friendly alternatives to cars. But before you wrap one up, it’s worth asking: is gifting an e-scooter really a good idea?

In the UK, privately owned e-scooters cannot legally be used on public roads, pavements, or cycle lanes. They’re only permitted on private land with the landowner’s consent. This catches many new owners off guard and could lead to fines or confiscation. If you’re considering an e-scooter as a gift, make sure the person receiving it understands these rules.

Safety and Accident Risks

Generally, e-scooters can reach speeds of 15-30 mph, but some high-performance models can exceed 40mph. With e-scooters being able to reach these speeds, accidents are becoming more common. Collisions with pedestrians or vehicles can cause serious injuries.

Insurance and Responsibility

If someone is injured by an e-scooter, they may be able to claim compensation. E-scooters often aren’t covered by standard insurance policies. This means any claim will need to be brought against the Motor Insurer’s Bureau (MIB). Check out our article here (I’ve Been Hit By an E-Scooter! Can I Claim? – Farleys Solicitors) about how to bring these types of claims. However, the MIB can choose to claim back the costs from the e-scooter rider directly. This an important consideration before gifting one.

Fire Hazards

Another concern is defective batteries. The latest figures from the Office for Product Safety & Standards confirm that e-scooter fires are increasing year on year, and most of which happen when the scooter is in the home, primarily starting in the bedroom! The majority (91%) of the fires involving e-scooters were recorded with batteries or generators as the source of ignition.

If you are buying an e-scooter, choose a reputable retailer and ensure the product meets UK safety standards. Avoid cheap imports that may not comply with regulations.

Final Thoughts

E-scooters can be a fun and practical gift, but they come with significant risks. If you’re thinking of buying one this Christmas, do your research: check the law, choose a safe and certified product, and make sure the recipient understands the responsibilities involved. Sometimes, the best gift is peace of mind.

Advice Following an Injury Involving an E-Scooter

If you’ve been injured following an accident with an e-scooter or due to a defective product, you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation. For an evaluation of your claim and advice on the next steps, please contact Farleys’ personal injury specialists on 0845 287 0939, contact us by email, or through the online chat below.