Electric scooter trials begin in the UK from 4th July

The UK’s Department for Transport has set out a framework for electric scooter trials in the UK, laying out rules for riders and hire companies alike. The new rules will come into force from 4 July, and the first trial hire schemes are expected to launch next week.  The trials are to be held in locations across the country with around 50 councils reportedly interested in hosting trials, with Middlesbrough listed as one initial site.

Scooter hire schemes were initially due to begin in 2021, but the date was brought forward to summer 2020 as part of the government’s mission to encourage more people to take up ‘active transport’ such as cycling and walking as the UK emerges from coronavirus lockdown.

During the consultation period, it was suggested that electric scooters should be capped at a top speed of 12.5mph, but that limit has now been raised to 15.5mph, which is in line with the top speed of most commercially available scooters. In most other respects, the rules for electric scooters will be pretty similar to those for bikes: no riding on the pavement (cycle lanes and roads only), don’t try to carry another person, show consideration for other road users and follow the Highway Code.  Wearing a helmet is recommended, but currently not mandatory.

 

Commonplace across Europe and America

E-scooters have been commonplace on roads and in cities across Europe and America for some time, however the decision to trial in the UK comes despite a rising number of accidents and fatalities with the first UK reported fatality in July last year when the e-scooter collided with a lorry at a roundabout in Battersea, south-west London.

 

Figures from the US

 

In light of the new measures we look at the safety concerns for this new mode of transport and highlight what safety measures you can implement to reduce any risk of a collision.

Our range of cyclist safety equipment is one of the most advanced ranges on the market, .and has been developed to Improve awareness, help detect vulnerable road users and reduce the risk of accidents when turning left or right. Our technology is perfect to gain your star rating for Direct Vision Standard compliance and is in-line with FORS and CLOCS accreditation.

VT TURNAWARE is a blind spot camera system that uses sophisticated video analytics software to detect anyone moving towards the vehicle and will warn the driver of their approach.

VT TURNALARM prevents accidents in difficult driving conditions by specifically warning other road users of the vehicle’s intentions when they are conducting a turning manoeuvre.

Our VT TURNSENSOR system detects objects within range of ultrasonic sensors and warns of danger both visually and audibly to the driver.

VT TURNSIGN  Warns vulnerable road user of your presence with an illuminated sign

For more information on our range please get in touch on 01254 679 717  or email your requirements info@vision-techniques.com