South Tyneside Council targets e-scooter safety in schools with presentations
South Tyneside Council is delivering presentations to secondary schools across the borough to educate young people about the law around e-scooters and electric bikes, with a police officer on hand to provide information on what is and isn't legal.
South Tyneside Council will spread messages about e-bike and e-scooter safety in secondary schools across the borough.
The council will be delivering a series of presentations to help young people understand the law around e-scooters and electric bikes and the consequences of using them illegally.
A police officer will also be at the sessions to give pupils information to help them understand what is and isn’t legal.
South Tyneside Council, via social media, said: “E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles. Most e-scooters do not meet the legal requirements needed to be used on roads, pavements or in public spaces, including publicly accessible areas such as car parks and play parks.
“Not every electric bike is a road-legal e-bike. To qualify as an electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC), it needs working pedals, a motor with a maximum output of 250 watts and electrical assistance which cuts out at 15.5mph.
“If an e-bike does not meet all three requirements, it is classed as a motor vehicle and different legal requirements apply.
“The message isn't only for young people. Information is also being shared with parents and carers to help families understand the rules and make informed choices before buying or using an e-scooter or electric bike.”
The council said it is part of its work “to tackle the nuisance and risks” associated with the illegal use of off-road bikes and e-scooters.