E -scooters (electric scooters) are an increasingly common sight on the UK’s streets. You’ve probably spotted people whizzing around on them – but are they a brilliant way to get around or a danger to others? Since the Government began trials in 2020, e-scooters have become more popular. Nearly 19,500 of them are available to hire every day across the UK, and that is just for trial areas outside of London. Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to ride in public, however. People can only legally ride an e-scooter on public roads or cycle lanes if it is rented as part of an official Government trial. Despite this, some shops have advertised e-scooters for use on public roads and many people still use them there. What do you think? Should all e-scooters be banned?
Yes – there have been some bad accidents
E-scooters might look like a fun and convenient way to travel but there have been crashes. The UK Government reported that in 2025, 1,477 people were injured in collisions involving e-scooters in Britain, including 235 pedestrians. Ten people died, and 484 suffered serious injuries. Hospital data shows that the number of children injured in e-scooter related crashes has increased in recent years. There is also the problem of irresponsible (reckless) riding. A study found that 24% of e-scooter users failed to stop for a red traffic light this year. Private scooters are illegal on public roads, yet some people still use them. A complete ban on all e-scooters would help to make the streets and roads safer for everyone.
No – they are convenient and green
Why ban something that makes getting around towns and cities easier, cheaper and greener? E-scooters are portable and simple to use, making them a useful alternative to cars for short journeys. They can also help to reduce pollution. Government research estimated that rental e-scooters in five of the trial areas replaced 0.75 to 0.99 million miles of car travel, which meant lower emissions of gases that cause climate change. The vehicles are easy to park, too, as spaces are set aside for rental e-scooters. In London, research last year showed that 95% of rental e-scooter users correctly used parking spots, preventing clutter. Instead of a ban, e-scooter users should be encouraged to ride them responsibly.
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