The cost and severity of injuries related to micromobility vehicles such as e-scooters, e-unicycles, and mobility scooters in the United Kingdom have been rising, according to recent data from the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB). Claims involving these devices have reached nearly £111 million, reflecting an increase in both the number and seriousness of incidents reported.

MIB has documented a range of injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, complex fractures requiring surgery and rehabilitation, and soft tissue damage such as ligament injuries. The organisation highlighted that these injuries not only affect the individuals involved but can also have significant consequences for their families, livelihoods, and mental wellbeing.

The financial burden of compensating micromobility accident victims is ultimately carried by the wider motoring public. MIB finances these claims through a levy imposed on all UK motor insurers, which is then reflected in insurance premiums paid by drivers.

In response to growing concerns, MIB has called for enhanced public education surrounding the legislation governing micromobility devices. A recent YouGov survey found that more than half of UK adults were unaware that privately owned e-scooters are illegal on public roads, a knowledge gap that poses safety risks and legal complications.

Angus Eaton, chief executive officer at MIB, emphasized the disconnect between the widespread use of micromobility vehicles and public understanding of the laws that apply. He noted that many users do not realise that riding a private e-scooter on public roads is illegal and that doing so means they are uninsured. Eaton pointed out that collisions involving such vehicles often result in severe injuries with lasting impacts, underscoring the need for improved awareness to encourage safer behaviour and compliance with the law.

Current UK regulations classify e-scooters as motor vehicles, requiring riders to hold a driving licence and insurance. Since insurance products for privately owned e-scooters are not available, anyone riding one in public is considered to be uninsured. Only government-approved rental e-scooters operated as part of official trial schemes are legally permitted on public roads. Privately owned e-scooters are restricted to private land.

Electric bicycles also face regulatory conditions; to be legal, they must qualify as Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPC), limiting motor power to 250 watts and cutting assistance at 15.5 mph. Bikes exceeding these parameters may be subject to motor vehicle regulations, including licensing and insurance requirements.

Penalties for illegal riding of e-scooters mirror those for uninsured driving, including vehicle seizure, unlimited fines if prosecuted, six penalty points on a driving licence, possible driving bans, and increased future insurance premiums. For riders without a licence, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) can issue a "ghost licence," meaning penalty points will be recorded once a licence is obtained. In the event of a collision causing injury, riders may also face personal liability for compensation costs, which can be substantial.

A Department for Transport spokesperson reaffirmed the government’s commitment to road user safety and announced plans to consult on e-scooter regulations within the next year. This consultation will address insurance requirements aimed at improving victim compensation and introduce new offences and stricter penalties for dangerous e-cycling.