Find your scooter

Category: Safety & ownership

  • Getting Rid of an Old E-Scooter or Its Battery in the UK: What GOV.UK, London Fire Brigade and Three Councils Say

    Getting Rid of an Old E-Scooter or Its Battery in the UK: What GOV.UK, London Fire Brigade and Three Councils Say

    If an e-scooter battery begins to smoke or catches fire: get out immediately, raise the alarm, call 999 and do not attempt to tackle the fire yourself. That is London Fire Brigade’s (LFB) advice for fires caused by an e-bike or e-scooter.

    When an e-scooter reaches the end of its life, the scooter and its lithium-ion battery need somewhere to go. This guide sets out what GOV.UK says about retailer take-back and what LFB, Recycle Your Electricals and three councils (Dundee, Greater Manchester and Lambeth) say about disposal. Council arrangements differ, so the examples show the range rather than a national rule.

    Why can’t it go in the household bin?

    LFB says lithium-ion batteries should not be placed in the same bins as regular rubbish or recycling, because if they get damaged or overheat they may cause a fire. Recycle Your Electricals, a UK-wide campaign, makes the same point under the heading “Never bin batteries”, saying hidden batteries inside electricals can spark dangerous fires when crushed in bin lorries and recycling centres.

    Recycle for Greater Manchester says not to put electrical or battery-powered items in any bin at home, because they can cause fires when damaged or crushed, posing a risk to bin lorries and waste facilities. Lambeth Council, in a November 2023 notice, reported six fires in waste collection vehicles and at processing plants since May that year, caused by e-bike and e-scooter batteries put in the rubbish.

    What can a seller be asked to take back?

    GOV.UK describes free in-store and alternative take-back arrangements. Retailers can instead use the Distributor Take Back Scheme if they sell less than £100,000 of electrical and electronic equipment a year or sell only online. Where an in-store service is provided, it covers waste of the same type as the item bought, whether bought in store, online or by mail order. It must be offered free (transport costs may be charged for collection from homes), and customers must have at least 28 days to bring back the waste item. Online retailers must publish information about their arrangements on their website.

    Whether an e-scooter falls inside those rules is not spelled out on the pages read. GOV.UK’s WEEE guidance lists exclusions, including “transport for persons or goods, excluding electric 2 wheeled vehicles which are not type-approved”. Dundee City Council states that e-cycles, e-scooters and e-hoverboards are classed as electrical waste and that manufacturers and retailers should offer a free take-back scheme. Greater Manchester adds that some retailers will collect an old electrical item when they deliver a new one, or accept some items back from the shop where they were bought, so it advises checking before disposing.

    What do councils say?

    Three councils show how much the detail can vary.

    Dundee. Contact the manufacturer or retailer first. If the scooter cannot be returned through a take-back scheme, it can be recycled at the Riverside or Baldovie recycling centres, but only if the lithium battery is removed beforehand, because the council says it does not permit batteries to be removed at the centre for health and safety reasons. The scooter goes in the Small Domestic Appliance area and the battery in the industrial battery box. It says not to put the scooter in the scrap metal container.

    Greater Manchester. E-scooters, e-bikes and e-skateboards can be recycled at a local household waste recycling centre, but must go in the container for small electricals rather than scrap metal. If unsure, ask a site operative.

    Lambeth. The council says it is currently unable to take e-scooter or bike batteries and that they are not accepted at its Reuse and Recycling Centres. It asks residents to return them to the manufacturer or seller, or to use the drop-off locations it lists.

    The three councils give different answers, and LFB’s own advice is to check your local authority’s website for the safe way to dispose of lithium-ion batteries in your area.

    How do you find a drop-off point?

    LFB says to check your local authority’s website or the Recycle Your Electricals website for the safe way to dispose of lithium-ion batteries in your area. Recycle Your Electricals says anything with a plug, battery or cable can be reused or recycled, and that its locator lists almost 30,000 locations to donate or recycle old electricals; it asks users to search with a UK postcode.

    Is there a better option than disposal?

    Several of the sources point to reuse first. Greater Manchester asks whether someone might benefit from the unwanted scooter and suggests donating it to a charity shop. Lambeth says to prioritise reusing items with life still in them, or donating them to charity shops. Recycle Your Electricals lists repair, donate, sell and recycle as the options for old electricals.

    LFB’s main e-bike and e-scooter page says the lithium-ion batteries can pose a serious fire risk if they become damaged, faulty or are charged incorrectly, and it has separate pages on warning signs and on charging safely.

    The bottom line

    LFB, Recycle Your Electricals and Greater Manchester all say lithium-ion batteries and battery-powered items should not go in household bins. GOV.UK describes several ways retailers can meet their electrical-waste obligations, so check which service the seller provides. Dundee describes e-scooters as electrical waste for which sellers should offer a free scheme, but councils such as Dundee, Greater Manchester and Lambeth set different rules for what their centres accept. The sources point to the seller and the local council or centre as the places to ask. General information, not advice on a specific product.

    Sources

    • How to dispose of batteries from your e-bike or e-scooter, London Fire Brigade, read 28 October 2026 (london-fire.gov.uk)
    • E-bikes and e-scooters: Fire safety advice, London Fire Brigade, read 28 October 2026 (london-fire.gov.uk)
    • Electrical waste: retailer and distributor responsibilities, GOV.UK, read 28 October 2026 (gov.uk)
    • Regulations: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE), Office for Product Safety and Standards and Defra, last updated 12 August 2025, read 28 October 2026 (gov.uk)
    • e-Cycles, e-Scooters & e-Hoverboards, Dundee City Council, read 28 October 2026 (dundeecity.gov.uk)
    • E-Scooters, E-bikes, E-skateboards, Recycle for Greater Manchester, read 28 October 2026 (recycleforgreatermanchester.com)
    • Small electricals and battery waste, Lambeth Council, read 28 October 2026 (lambeth.gov.uk)
    • Lambeth: e-Scooter/e-Bike batteries fire risk, Lambeth Council, 13 November 2023, read 28 October 2026 (love.lambeth.gov.uk)
    • Recycle Your Electricals home page, read 28 October 2026 (recycleyourelectricals.org.uk)
    • Use the Distributor Take Back Scheme, GOV.UK, read 28 October 2026 (gov.uk)
  • E-Scooter Batteries in Hot, Cold and Wet Weather: What London Fire Brigade and the Department for Transport Say

    E-Scooter Batteries in Hot, Cold and Wet Weather: What London Fire Brigade and the Department for Transport Say

    If an e-scooter battery begins to smoke or catches fire: get out, stay out and call 999. London Fire Brigade (LFB) says to get out immediately, raise the alarm, call 999 and not attempt to tackle the fire yourself, and adds that lithium-ion battery fires can spread rapidly and produce toxic smoke. The Department for Transport’s battery guidance uses the wording “Raise the alarm, get out, stay out and call 999 immediately”.

    The rest of this guide covers a quieter question: what do heat, cold and rain do to an e-scooter battery? It draws on LFB’s page on weather and e-bikes and e-scooters, the Department for Transport (DfT) guidance on battery safety for e-scooter users, which is published on GOV.UK and states that it applies to England, Scotland and Wales, and GOV.UK’s rules page. LFB’s page covers e-bikes and e-scooters together. General information only; follow your manufacturer’s instructions.

    Hot weather and sunlit storage

    LFB says high temperatures can put stress on lithium-ion batteries and increase the risk of overheating. Heat can make the chemicals inside the battery break down more quickly, which may reduce its lifespan, affect charging performance and increase the risk of overheating or failure.

    The steps LFB lists are to avoid leaving batteries in direct sunlight for long periods, store them in cool, dry places, let the battery cool before charging after a ride, and not charge a battery that already feels very hot. If a battery becomes unusually hot to the touch, LFB says to stop using it and let it cool. The DfT guidance says batteries should never be exposed to extreme temperatures, with direct sunlight named, and that a battery that is hot after intensive use should cool before charging. It adds that a battery that feels extremely hot to the touch may be defective and at risk of fire, so charging should stop immediately.

    Cold snaps: shorter range, slower charging

    For cold weather, LFB describes mainly a performance effect: reduced range, slower charging and the battery losing charge more quickly, because chemical reactions inside the battery slow down at lower temperatures. In its words, cold conditions usually affect performance rather than safety, but repeatedly exposing batteries to very low temperatures can cause damage over time.

    Its advice is to avoid leaving the battery outside overnight in winter, to let a cold battery warm to room temperature before charging, and to remember that charging a battery that is extremely cold can damage it. It also attaches a condition to bringing a battery indoors: make sure it will not block your escape route if it starts a fire. The DfT guidance makes a similar point, advising people not to charge an e-scooter where it could stop them leaving the home safely, and to avoid storing or charging on escape routes or in communal areas of multi-occupied buildings.

    Freezing temperatures

    LFB says lithium-ion batteries are not designed to operate in freezing conditions. Repeated exposure to freezing can lead to permanent capacity loss, internal damage and reduced battery life. If a battery has been left in freezing conditions, LFB says to let it warm up slowly indoors before using or charging it, and not to attempt to charge a frozen battery.

    Rain, puddles and washing

    LFB says most e-bikes and e-scooters are designed to withstand light rain and splashes during normal use, but lithium-ion batteries are not waterproof. Water reaching the battery or electrical components can cause short circuits, corrosion and battery failure, and LFB calls submerging a battery or exposing it to heavy flooding particularly dangerous.

    • Avoid riding through deep water or flooding.
    • Do not wash an e-bike or e-scooter with high-pressure water.
    • Dry the bike and battery if they become wet.
    • Remove and dry the battery if possible before charging.

    LFB’s page says that a battery that has been submerged in water should not be used.

    Signs the weather may have damaged a battery

    LFB lists an unusually hot battery, swelling or bulging, unusual smells and significantly reduced performance. If any appear, it says to stop using the battery and seek advice from the manufacturer or retailer. The DfT guidance adds noises, with failing lithium batteries reported to make hissing or cracking sounds, and leaks. For a battery that shows warning signs but is not smoking or on fire, DfT says to turn off and unplug the charger immediately and, if possible, carefully move the scooter or battery outside, away from people, pets and combustible materials.

    The DfT page adds that damaged batteries can catch fire without warning, and that a battery with suspected damage should be replaced and not charged or used.

    Where a private e-scooter can be used

    GOV.UK states that it is illegal to ride a privately owned electric scooter in public, for example on pavements, on roads or in parks, and that riders could be fined, get penalty points on a driving licence and have the scooter seized by the police. It says a privately owned e-scooter can be ridden only on private land with the landowner’s permission.

    Quick answers

    Do these pages give a safe temperature range?

    No figure appears on the LFB weather page or the DfT guidance. The DfT page tells owners to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for storage, charging and maintenance of the battery pack.

    The bottom line

    LFB advises keeping batteries out of strong sun for long periods, letting them cool after a ride, letting a cold battery warm to room temperature before charging, drying them after rain, and not using one that is unusually hot, swollen, smelly or has been submerged. Both LFB and the DfT raise the escape route: neither wants a battery stored or charged where it could block your way out. The DfT adds that a battery should never be exposed to extreme temperatures and that the manufacturer’s instructions apply. If a battery smokes or catches fire, get out, stay out and call 999.

    Sources

    • Heat, cold and rain: How weather conditions affect e-bikes and e-scooters (London Fire Brigade, london-fire.gov.uk, read 27 October 2026)
    • What to do if there’s a fire caused by an e-bike or e-scooter (London Fire Brigade, london-fire.gov.uk, read 27 October 2026)
    • Battery safety for e-scooter users (Department for Transport, gov.uk, published 1 February 2024)
    • Riding an electric scooter: the rules (gov.uk, read 27 October 2026)

  • Checking an E-Scooter, Battery or Charger for Recalls and Safety Reports: What OPSS and London Fire Brigade Say

    If a battery begins to smoke or catches fire: get out immediately, raise the alarm, call 999 and do not attempt to tackle the fire yourself. That is London Fire Brigade’s wording, which adds that lithium-ion battery fires can spread rapidly and produce toxic smoke. The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) likewise says people should never try to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires themselves but leave the area or building as quickly as possible and call 999.

    The rest of this guide is about the step before any fire: finding out whether an e-scooter, its battery or its charger has been recalled or reported. It draws on OPSS pages on GOV.UK and London Fire Brigade pages, all read on 25 October 2026. OPSS says e-scooters can be used on private land but should not be used on public roads unless they are part of an official rental trial. General information, not advice on a particular product.

    What is the OPSS list of recalls, reports and alerts?

    OPSS publishes a searchable list called Product Safety Alerts, Reports and Recalls. When read, it held 3,798 entries and could be filtered by alert type, risk level, product category, measure type and date. OPSS says the list can be searched to check products a person owns and that people can subscribe to email updates when new products are added.

    It describes three kinds of entry:

    • Product recalls: specific products sold in the UK that may require action to receive a free replacement, repair or refund from the manufacturer or a retailer.
    • Product safety reports: specific products found in the UK where measures other than a recall have been ordered by an authority or are being taken by a business.
    • Product safety alerts: notices about product categories or sectors with risks of serious injury or fatality, where OPSS requests immediate steps from businesses, authorities and possibly consumers.

    Does the list cover e-scooters?

    OPSS’s “Buy Safe, Be Safe” guidance says OPSS and local regulators remove unsafe and non-compliant e-bikes, e-scooters, batteries and chargers from the market where they are identified, and it directs readers to search the list for products subject to a report, alert or recall.

    The recalls page carries one limit: the list does not cover food and drink, vehicles, or medicines and medical devices. It points to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency checker for vehicle notices. It does not say how that wording applies to e-scooters, and the category filter on the list had no category named for e-scooters when read.

    Why register the scooter with the manufacturer?

    London Fire Brigade says e-bikes and e-scooters, or their components, may occasionally be recalled if a safety issue is identified, and that registering with the manufacturer lets it contact an owner quickly if an important safety alert or recall is issued. Registration is usually done on the manufacturer’s website using details such as model number, serial number and purchase date. The Brigade says a removable battery may also have its own serial number, and that serial and model numbers are often printed on the frame, the battery casing, or the packaging or manual.

    An example: a battery pack withdrawn from sale

    An OPSS Product Safety Report published on 22 January 2024 covers UPP Battery e-bike battery packs, models U004 and U004-1, sold via Amazon, AliBaba, eBay, Made in China and Desertcart. It says the packs present a serious risk of fire because of the potential for thermal runaway, and that OPSS issued Withdrawal Notices to distributors requiring removal from sale. For owners, it advises stopping use of the battery immediately and disposing of it via the local household waste disposal site, after checking that the centre accepts this type of battery.

    That report concerns e-bike batteries, and its disposal advice is for that product only.

    What if a battery or charger is recalled?

    London Fire Brigade’s advice is to stop using the product immediately, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and arrange repair, replacement or return if required. It adds: do not continue to use a battery or charger identified as unsafe.

    Warning signs that need no recall notice

    Both bodies list signs to act on straight away. The Brigade names a battery that becomes extremely hot to the touch, one that is swollen or bulging, lumps, leaking or damage to the casing, and hissing or cracking sounds or strong chemical smells. It says to turn the device off and unplug it, call the manufacturer or retailer, and report a faulty battery to the local Trading Standards office. OPSS says to stop using the charger or battery immediately if it is overheating, deforming, hissing, cracking, smelling, smoking or performing poorly.

    The bottom line

    OPSS publishes a searchable list of recalls, reports and alerts, and London Fire Brigade says registering a scooter with its manufacturer lets the manufacturer contact the owner quickly about a safety alert or recall. If a recall affects a battery or charger, the Brigade says to stop using it and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If a battery smokes or catches fire, the first steps are to get out, raise the alarm and call 999. The site’s guide to battery fire safety covers buying, charging and storing.

    Sources

    • Product Recalls and Alerts, Office for Product Safety and Standards, last updated 6 October 2026 (gov.uk)
    • Product Safety Alerts, Reports and Recalls, Office for Product Safety and Standards, read 25 October 2026 (gov.uk)
    • Buy Safe, Be Safe: avoid e-bike and e-scooter fires, Office for Product Safety and Standards, 24 October 2024 (gov.uk)
    • Product Safety Report: UPP Battery E-Bike Battery Packs (2401-0083), Office for Product Safety and Standards, 22 January 2024 (gov.uk)
    • Registering your e-bike or e-scooter for safety alerts and product recalls, London Fire Brigade, read 25 October 2026 (london-fire.gov.uk)
    • Spot the warning signs: Could your e-bike or e-scooter start a fire?, London Fire Brigade, read 25 October 2026 (london-fire.gov.uk)
    • What to do if there’s a fire caused by an e-bike or e-scooter, London Fire Brigade, read 25 October 2026 (london-fire.gov.uk)

  • Flying With an E-Scooter Battery From the UK: What the CAA’s Lithium Rules Mean

    Quick answer: The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) sets lithium battery limits by the battery’s watt-hour (Wh) rating. Batteries over 160Wh are prohibited in passenger baggage, spare lithium batteries cannot go in the hold, and the airline always has the final say. The CAA’s published guidance has no separate entry for personal e-scooters, so anyone planning to fly with one should contact the airline before travelling.

    E-scooters are popular for the last mile of a journey, and the question of whether one can go on holiday inevitably comes up. This guide explains the CAA’s battery guidance for passengers and how to apply it to the figures printed on a scooter battery. It is general information, not a substitute for the airline’s own policy. For the ground journey to the airport, see the guide to taking an e-scooter on a train in Great Britain.

    What the CAA guidance covers

    The CAA’s page on what items can be taken on aircraft sets out which items may go in checked baggage, carry-on baggage or neither, and which need airline approval. It includes entries for petrol-powered scooters, powered wheelchairs and mobility aids, spare lithium batteries, power banks and portable electronic devices. It has no separate entry for personal e-scooters. That does not mean an e-scooter is permitted or banned; it means the battery-size rules and the airline’s own policy are the relevant starting points. The CAA’s own message is to always check with your airline.

    The watt-hour thresholds

    The CAA’s “Pack right. Safe flight.” guidance explains battery sizes in three bands:

    • Under 100Wh: common in phones, laptops and cameras, and recommended to be carried in the cabin.
    • 100Wh to 160Wh: found in power tools and large power banks, and airline approval is required to carry them.
    • Over 160Wh: prohibited in passenger baggage, and must be transported separately as dangerous goods cargo.

    The CAA gives the formula for working out the rating if it is not printed on the battery: volts multiplied by amp hours equals watt-hours, or volts multiplied by milliamp hours divided by 1000. The CAA also notes that since 2009 and 2011 manufacturers have been required to mark lithium-ion batteries with their watt-hour rating, and that the figure is often marked on the battery.

    Anyone considering an e-scooter should therefore find the Wh rating on the battery or in the manual and compare it with these bands. A rating above 160Wh falls in the band the CAA says is prohibited in passenger baggage, regardless of what the scooter is.

    Spare batteries and chargers

    Battery rules depend on category and capacity. For spare lithium batteries, the CAA’s table says they cannot be carried in checked baggage, must travel in carry-on baggage and must be individually protected against short circuits, for example in original retail packaging or with taped terminals. Spares up to 100Wh need no operator approval. The CAA’s limit of no more than two spare batteries per person attaches to spares above 100Wh and up to 160Wh, which are subject to the operator’s approval; do not apply it to every small spare battery. Power banks have their own limit of two per person and must not be recharged on board. The CAA also says each battery must meet the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria requirements (Part III, subsection 38.3).

    Batteries built into devices

    For portable electronic devices powered by lithium batteries, the CAA’s table says devices should be carried as carry-on baggage. If they are checked, they must be completely switched off, not in sleep or hibernation mode, when the lithium-ion battery exceeds 2.7Wh per device, and measures must be taken to prevent unintentional activation and damage. Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh in devices still need operator approval. Whether a scooter counts as a portable electronic device for these purposes is a question for the airline, which is why it should be asked in writing before booking.

    Damaged or swollen batteries

    The CAA says batteries that show signs of damage, overheating or swelling should not be used and should never be carried on an aircraft. It also advises choosing reputable suppliers and brands when buying devices and spare batteries, and following both airline rules and manufacturer instructions. The site’s guide to e-scooter battery fire safety lists warning signs to watch for before any journey.

    Mobility scooters are different

    The CAA treats battery-powered mobility aids separately. Its table lists powered wheelchairs and mobility aids as items that may be carried, with airline approval for passengers whose mobility is restricted, and its battery guidance says to check with the airline ahead of travel. Mobility aids have separate arrangements, so contact the airline about the actual aid and battery before travel. A mobility scooter is not an alternative way to carry an e-scooter.

    A sensible order of steps

    1. Find the watt-hour rating on the battery or work it out from volts and amp hours.
    2. If it is above 160Wh, do not plan to carry it as passenger baggage.
    3. If it is up to 160Wh, ask the airline in writing whether it will accept the scooter or battery, and get the answer before paying for the ticket.
    4. Never pack spare lithium batteries in the hold, and protect any permitted spare against short circuits.

    The bottom line

    The CAA does not give e-scooters a dedicated entry, so the decision rests on the battery’s watt-hour rating and the airline’s policy. A battery above 160Wh cannot travel as passenger baggage, spare lithium batteries stay in the cabin, and a damaged battery should never be flown. Check the figures, ask the airline first and keep the reply.

    Sources

    • What items can I travel with and which are restricted (caa.co.uk)
    • Pack right. Safe flight. (caa.co.uk)

  • Can You Take an E-Scooter on a Train in Great Britain? What Operators and TfL Say

    Quick answer: In Great Britain, most train operators do not allow e-scooters on their trains or in their stations, and Transport for London (TfL) bans them across its network even when folded. Non-electric folding scooters are treated differently. Always check the specific operator’s own policy before you travel.

    This guide is about carrying an e-scooter as a passenger, which is separate from the law on riding one on public roads (covered in the site’s guide to electric scooter laws in the UK). It reports the published policies of the operators named below as read in October 2026, and policies can change.

    What National Rail says

    National Rail’s luggage guidance states that some train companies do not allow e-scooters on their services and tells passengers to check the operator’s cycle policy before travelling. It adds that where e-scooters are permitted they should be folded and must meet the same requirements as other items of luggage. In practice, the decision sits with each train operator rather than with a single national rule.

    Operators that do not allow e-scooters

    Several operators running services in Great Britain publish clear bans:

    • GWR: from 21 May 2023, customers can no longer bring e-scooters onto GWR trains or stations. GWR links the change to incidents on the UK rail and tube network in which lithium-ion batteries in e-scooters were associated with severe overheating. It says customers who bring one will be asked to leave and that unattended e-scooters will be treated as abandoned.
    • Chiltern Railways: from 12 June 2023, e-scooters, and the charging of e-scooters, are not permitted on trains or within stations because of the fire safety risk of lithium-ion batteries.
    • Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern: e-scooters, e-unicycles, e-skateboards and hoverboards have not been permitted on trains or in stations since 1 June 2023. Thameslink says the decision followed advice from the Rail Delivery Group and recommendations from the Rail Safety Standards Board and London Fire Brigade.
    • LNER: its guidance says e-scooters are not permitted on most trains in the UK and that anyone who tries to board with one will not be allowed to travel.
    • Transport for Wales: e-scooters and e-unicycles cannot be carried on its trains under any circumstances, citing the fire risk and toxic smoke from lithium-ion batteries.
    • CrossCountry: e-scooters are not permitted on trains, and on-board staff have the right to refuse boarding.

    Operators serving Scotland and Northern Ireland publish their own policies, so passengers should check the operator concerned rather than assuming the English rules apply.

    Folding manual scooters are different

    The bans above concern powered scooters. Thameslink and Southern both state that passengers can travel with a folding bike or folding manual scooter at any time, asking that these are stowed in luggage racks. Chiltern says non-electric scooters are permitted. The distinction is about the lithium-ion battery rather than the folding mechanism, so a folded e-scooter is not covered by the folding-scooter allowance.

    London: TfL services

    TfL’s guidance is explicit. Passengers are not allowed to carry e-scooters or e-unicycles on TfL services or in its stations and other premises, even when folded. TfL says this follows fires caused on its network by defective lithium-ion batteries in privately owned e-scooters and e-unicycles, and that non-compliance risks a fine of up to £1,000.

    TfL also states that rental e-scooters hired under the London trial have always been banned from TfL services because they cannot be folded. Non-motorised scooters can still be carried, though not ridden, on TfL services. TfL’s page adds that rental e-scooters are the only way to ride an e-scooter legally on public roads in London, and only in participating boroughs.

    Mobility scooters and e-bikes

    Mobility scooters are not the same as e-scooters, and operators treat them separately. GWR notes that its policy for mobility scooters is different, LNER says mobility aids are allowed, and Chiltern points passengers to its Accessible Travel Policy. E-bikes also have their own rules: Transport for Wales says it allows electrically assisted pedal cycles on the same terms as standard pedal cycles, while LNER does not permit charging an electric bike on the train.

    Planning a journey with a scooter

    • Check the cycle or luggage policy of every operator on the route, not only the first, because a ban on one operator applies to that operator’s trains and stations.
    • Do not plan to charge an e-scooter or its battery at a station or on a train; Chiltern explicitly prohibits charging.
    • If a rental scooter is used for the first or last mile, remember that rental scooters cannot be taken onto TfL services.
    • A non-electric folding scooter is the option operators such as Thameslink, Southern and Chiltern describe as acceptable.

    The bottom line

    For a typical journey in Great Britain, plan on the basis that an e-scooter will not be accepted on the train or in the station. National Rail leaves the decision to each operator, the operators named above prohibit them, and TfL bans them even when folded. The reliable approach is to read the operator’s current policy before every trip and to use a non-electric folding scooter if a scooter is needed at the end of the journey.

    Sources

    • Train Travel with Luggage (nationalrail.co.uk)
    • Can I take my electric scooter on the train? (gwr.com)
    • Travelling with your bike and scooter (chilternrailways.co.uk)
    • Bringing a bike or scooter (thameslinkrailway.com)
    • Bringing a bike or scooter (southernrailway.com)
    • Travelling with an e-scooter (lner.co.uk)
    • On board FAQs (tfw.wales)
    • Bikes and cyclists (crosscountrytrains.co.uk)
    • E-scooters (tfl.gov.uk)
  • E-scooter insurance and theft protection: what you need in each country

    E-scooter insurance and theft protection: what you need in each country

    Quick answer: Insurance rules for e-scooters vary widely. In the UK, trial rental operators provide third-party insurance, but private e-scooters cannot legally be used on public land. Ireland and Queensland do not require insurance for compliant e-scooters. In Ontario, municipalities decide. In the US, standard home and car policies often exclude e-scooter liability. Protect against theft with a well-rated lock, indoor storage and a record of your serial number.

    Insurance by country

    UK

    For rental e-scooters in official trial areas, GOV.UK says the rental scheme operator will provide third-party motor insurance (GOV.UK). Privately owned e-scooters are different. GOV.UK says they fall within the legal definition of a motor vehicle and that it is against the law to use one on public land. They can be used on private land with the permission of the landowner (GOV.UK). If you use one illegally you could face a fine, penalty points on your licence and have the scooter impounded (GOV.UK). For a private scooter, the main question is therefore cover for theft or damage while it is stored at home. Check your home contents policy wording and ask your insurer directly.

    Ireland

    Citizens Information states that you do not need a licence to ride an e-scooter and that your e-scooter does not need to be registered, taxed or insured. It must still meet the technical requirements, including a CE mark and a manufacturer’s plate showing power output, weight and design speed (Citizens Information). Because insurance is not compulsory, it is worth thinking about how you would cover damage or injury you cause to someone else. If you are injured by another vehicle, Citizens Information advises reporting the incident to the Gardaí and swapping details, including the driver’s insurance details.

    United States

    The Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) explains that a standard homeowners policy typically excludes liabilities arising from the use of a motor vehicle, usually defined as any self-propelled vehicle, and that a standard personal auto policy excludes liability coverage for vehicles with fewer than four wheels, including e-scooters. It notes that a personal liability umbrella policy does not usually exclude vehicles with fewer than four wheels and may provide some e-scooter liability cover (Triple-I). Rules for riding also vary by state; California, for example, requires a valid driver’s licence or instruction permit to operate a motorised scooter (California Vehicle Code).

    Canada

    In Ontario’s e-scooter pilot, participating municipalities are responsible for deciding whether insurance is required, and what type and coverage. Riders involved in a collision causing injury or property damage must report it to the police (Government of Ontario). Check your own municipality’s bylaw before you ride.

    Australia

    In Queensland, you do not currently need registration or insurance to ride a legal personal mobility device, although from 31 August 2026 you must be 16 and hold at least a learner driver licence (Queensland Government). In NSW it is currently illegal to ride a privately owned e-scooter in public places, so private scooters are limited to private property (NSW Government). NSW has published draft rules as part of plans to legalise e-scooter riding (NSW Government).

    Market Is insurance compulsory for private e-scooters?
    UK Private e-scooters cannot legally be used on public land. Trial rental operators provide third-party insurance.
    Ireland No, for e-scooters that meet the legal requirements.
    US Varies by state and city. Standard home and auto policies often exclude e-scooter liability.
    Canada (Ontario) Set by each participating municipality.
    Australia (Queensland) Not currently required for legal personal mobility devices.

    Protecting your scooter from theft

    Choose a properly rated lock

    Sold Secure, a UK-based testing body, grades locks as Bronze, Silver, Gold or Diamond. Bronze is aimed at the opportunist thief in a normal-risk environment, Silver at a more determined thief, Gold at the dedicated thief in a high-risk environment, and Diamond is its top level for the most determined thief. Not every product type is tested to Diamond. Sold Secure also runs a Powered Cycle category covering motorbikes, scooters and e-bikes alongside its Pedal Cycle category for bike locks (Sold Secure). Look for the rating on the lock itself or search Sold Secure’s approved product database.

    Use the security features you already have

    Many modern scooters include digital security. Segway lists Apple Find My tracking on scooters such as the E3 E, F3 E and MAX G3 E, and its AirLock technology on several models (Segway). NIU’s app offers remote lock and unlock on the KQi 100P (NIU). These features help, but they do not stop someone physically carrying a scooter away, so use a physical lock too.

    Store it indoors

    Indoor storage is the simplest theft protection, but where you store it matters for fire safety. Keep the scooter away from exit routes and never leave it in the communal hallway of an apartment block (London Fire Brigade, Dublin Fire Brigade).

    Registration and marking

    Some places require official identification. Ireland requires a manufacturer’s plate showing power output, weight and design speed, and a declaration of conformity from the retailer, but no registration plate (Citizens Information). Segway fits an insurance plate holder to European models such as the E3 E, F3 E and MAX G3 E (Segway).

    Wherever you live, keep a private record that proves the scooter is yours:

    • The serial number, usually on the frame or deck.
    • Your receipt or order confirmation.
    • Clear photos of the scooter, including any distinguishing marks.
    • The Irish declaration of conformity, if you are in Ireland.

    These details make it easier to report a theft to the police and to make an insurance claim.

    If you are in a crash

    Queensland requires riders involved in a crash to stop, give assistance to anyone injured, and exchange names and addresses (Queensland Government). Ontario requires collisions causing injury or property damage to be reported to the police (Government of Ontario). In Ireland, Citizens Information advises reporting the incident to the Gardaí, swapping details and getting medical help if needed (Citizens Information).

    Checklist

    • Check whether your country, state or city requires insurance.
    • Read your home and liability policies for e-scooter exclusions.
    • Buy a lock with an independent rating, such as Sold Secure.
    • Turn on tracking or app locks if your scooter has them.
    • Record the serial number, receipt and photos.

    Sources

    • E-scooter trials: guidance for users (GOV.UK)
    • Guidance on powered transporters (GOV.UK)
    • E-scooters (Citizens Information, Ireland) (citizensinformation.ie)
    • Spotlight on: e-scooters and insurance (Insurance Information Institute) (iii.org)
    • California Vehicle Code section 21235 (california.public.law)
    • Electric kick-style scooters (e-scooters) (Government of Ontario) (ontario.ca)
    • Rules for personal mobility devices (Queensland Government) (qld.gov.au)
    • Riding electric scooters in NSW (NSW Government) (nsw.gov.au)
    • Legalising e-scooter riding in public places (NSW Government) (nsw.gov.au)
    • Sold Secure ratings explained (Sold Secure) (soldsecure.com)
    • Segway Ninebot MAX G3 E specifications (Segway UK) (uk-en.segway.com)
    • NIU KQi 100P Electric Kick Scooter (NIU official US shop) (shop.niu.com)
    • How to charge e-bikes and e-scooters safely (London Fire Brigade) (london-fire.gov.uk)
    • Fire safety for e-scooters, e-bikes and hoverboards (Dublin Fire Brigade) (dublincity.ie)
  • Electric scooter maintenance: tyres, brakes, bolts, water and storage

    Electric scooter maintenance: tyres, brakes, bolts, water and storage

    Quick answer: Check your scooter before every ride for loose bolts, working brakes, lights and tyre pressure. Keep tyres at the pressure your manual gives, clean with a damp cloth rather than a hose, do not treat an IP rating as permission to ride through water, and store the scooter in a cool, dry place with the battery charged rather than flat.

    The pre-ride check

    A quick look before every ride catches most problems early. Segway’s Max G30P manual tells riders to check for loose fasteners and damaged components before each ride, and to stop immediately if the scooter makes abnormal sounds or signals an alarm (Segway manual). The US CPSC recommends inspecting the handlebars, brakes, throttle, bell, lights, tyres, cables and frame (CPSC).

    1. Stem and folding latch: make sure the stem is locked upright and the folding mechanism is fully closed.
    2. Handlebars: check they do not twist or wobble.
    3. Brakes: squeeze each lever and push the scooter forward to check it stops.
    4. Tyres: look for cuts or bulges and check pressure if your tyres are air-filled.
    5. Lights and bell: confirm they work, especially before riding in the dark.
    6. Battery level and warnings: look for any error codes on the display.

    Tyres

    E-scooters use several tyre types, and each needs different care:

    • Pneumatic with inner tube: the NIU KQi 100 uses these (NIU). They give a comfortable ride but can puncture and need regular pressure checks.
    • Tubeless: Xiaomi fits 10-inch tubeless tyres to its Electric Scooter 5 series (Xiaomi).
    • Self-sealing or self-healing tubeless: Segway lists these on the F3 E and MAX G3 E, and Apollo on the City 2.0 (Segway, Apollo).
    • Inner hollow tyres: Segway describes these on the E2 Plus B II as maintenance free (Segway).

    For air-filled tyres, pressure matters for range, grip and puncture resistance. The right figure depends on the model. Segway’s Max G30P manual, for example, says to inflate tyres to 32 to 37 psi and to inflate both tyres equally (Segway manual). Always use the figure from your own manual rather than a general number.

    Brakes

    Know which brakes your scooter has, because each type behaves differently:

    • Drum brakes are enclosed and fitted to models such as the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 5 and the front of the NIU KQi 100 (Xiaomi, NIU).
    • Disc brakes appear on the Segway F3 E (front) and on both wheels of the MAX G3 E and ZT3 Pro E (Segway, Segway). Pads wear, and cable-operated discs can need adjustment as they do.
    • Electronic and regenerative brakes use the motor to slow the scooter. NIU pairs regenerative braking with drum or disc brakes on its KQi models (NIU).

    If a brake lever feels spongy, travels further than usual, or the scooter takes longer to stop, get it checked before riding again. Segway’s manual directs owners to their dealer or distributor for service when something is wrong (Segway manual).

    Bolts, screws and the folding mechanism

    Vibration loosens fasteners over time. Scooters that need assembly come with the tools to tighten key screws. Segway’s Max G30P, for example, ships with a hex wrench and six screws to fix the handlebar to the stem, and Xiaomi includes a T-handle Allen key and screws with the Electric Scooter 5 (Segway manual, Xiaomi). Keep these tools and use them to check the handlebar and stem screws regularly. If the folding latch develops play or will not lock firmly, stop riding and get it repaired.

    Water resistance and IP ratings explained

    Most scooters list an IP (ingress protection) rating under the IEC 60529 standard. The first digit covers dust and the second covers water, and an X means that category was not rated (IP code summary). For water, the key levels are:

    Second digit What it means
    4 Splashing water from any direction has no harmful effect
    5 Water jets from a 6.3 mm nozzle from any direction have no harmful effect
    6 Powerful water jets from a 12.5 mm nozzle have no harmful effect
    7 Immersion up to 1 m for 30 minutes

    Real examples: the Segway E2 Plus B II is rated IPX4, the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 5 IPX5, the Segway MAX G3 E IPX6 for the body and IPX7 for the battery pack, and the Apollo City 2.0 IP66 (Segway, Xiaomi, Segway, Apollo).

    An IP rating is not an invitation to ride through puddles. Segway’s Max G30P is rated IPX5, yet its manual tells riders not to ride in the rain, not to let the scooter get wet and not to ride through puddles or other bodies of water. It also warns against washing the scooter with a power washer or hose (Segway manual). Apollo describes its Phantom 2.0 as sealed against dust and water spray but not fully submersible (Apollo). Dublin Fire Brigade lists submersion in water as one of the ways a lithium battery can become a fire risk (Dublin Fire Brigade).

    Cleaning

    Segway advises wiping the frame with a soft, damp cloth, scrubbing stubborn dirt gently, and never using alcohol, petrol, acetone or other solvents. Make sure the scooter is switched off, unplugged and the charge-port cap is sealed before cleaning (Segway manual).

    Battery care and storage

    • Charge regularly and avoid running flat. Segway advises charging after each ride and avoiding completely draining the battery, which it says can cause permanent damage (Segway manual).
    • Know how long it holds charge. Segway says a fully charged battery typically retains power for 120 to 180 days, but a low battery only 30 to 60 days (Segway manual).
    • Store cool and dry. Segway advises a cool, dry place and warns that sunlight and extreme heat or cold accelerate the ageing of plastic parts and can reduce battery life (Segway manual). Xiaomi lists a storage range of -20°C to 45°C and a charging range of 0°C to 40°C for the Electric Scooter 5 (Xiaomi).
    • Expect less range in the cold. Segway says range at -20°C can be half that at 22°C, recovering as it warms up (Segway manual).
    • Store safely. Keep the scooter away from exits and charge following fire service advice (London Fire Brigade).

    When to get professional help

    Do not open the battery. Segway warns there are no user-serviceable parts and the risk of fire and electric shock, and says not to charge or use a battery that is damaged or shows traces of water (Segway manual). Take the scooter to an authorised service centre for battery, motor, controller or frame problems, and stop riding immediately if you notice any of the battery warning signs in our fire safety guide.

    Sources

    • Ninebot KickScooter Max G30P user manual (Segway) (store.segway.com)
    • E-scooter, e-bike and hoverboard injuries and deaths are on the rise (US CPSC) (cpsc.gov)
    • NIU KQi 100 specifications (NIU global) (global.niu.com)
    • NIU KQi 300 specifications (NIU global) (global.niu.com)
    • Xiaomi Electric Scooter 5 specs (Xiaomi UK) (mi.com)
    • Segway Ninebot F3 E specifications (Segway UK) (uk-en.segway.com)
    • Segway Ninebot MAX G3 E specifications (Segway UK) (uk-en.segway.com)
    • Segway ZT3 Pro E specifications (Segway UK) (uk-en.segway.com)
    • Segway Ninebot E2 Plus B II specifications (Segway UK) (uk-en.segway.com)
    • Apollo City 2.0 (Apollo Scooters Canada) (apolloscooters.ca)
    • Apollo Phantom 2.0 52V (Apollo Scooters Canada) (apolloscooters.ca)
    • IP code (IEC 60529) summary (Wikipedia) (en.wikipedia.org)
    • Fire safety for e-scooters, e-bikes and hoverboards (Dublin Fire Brigade) (dublincity.ie)
    • How to charge e-bikes and e-scooters safely (London Fire Brigade) (london-fire.gov.uk)
  • E-scooter battery fire safety: how to buy, charge and store safely

    E-scooter battery fire safety: how to buy, charge and store safely

    Quick answer: Most e-scooter battery fires start during charging. Use only the charger that came with your scooter or one the manufacturer recommends, charge on a hard surface away from your escape route, never charge while you are asleep or out, unplug when it is full, and stop using any battery that is swollen, hot, hissing or smells unusual. If it catches fire, get out, close the door and call the fire service.

    Why e-scooter batteries can catch fire

    E-scooters use lithium-ion batteries. Dublin Fire Brigade explains that these batteries are safe when used properly but present a fire risk when over-charged, short-circuited, submerged in water or damaged. The London Fire Brigade says most fires involving e-bikes and e-scooters happen while the battery is charging (London Fire Brigade). When a lithium battery does fail, Dublin Fire Brigade warns that it produces its own oxygen as it burns, so the fire escalates quickly (Dublin Fire Brigade).

    Regulators take the risk seriously. In the UK, the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) warns that lithium-ion batteries can present serious fire or explosion hazards (OPSS). In the US, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) published a proposed rule on 24 June 2026 to address the risk of death and injury from lithium-ion batteries in micromobility products, including thermal runaway leading to fires, explosions and smoke inhalation. The comment period closed on 24 August 2026 (Federal Register).

    Buying safely

    Fire risk starts at the checkout. OPSS sets out five steps for owners, and the first is to research: only buy an e-scooter, charger or battery from a known seller and check product reviews (OPSS). Other official advice adds detail:

    • Ireland: Dublin Fire Brigade advises buying from reputable retailers, checking packaging for traceable manufacturer information, returning products with missing or poorly written manuals, and having second-hand devices inspected by a qualified technician (Dublin Fire Brigade).
    • US: the CPSC advises only using the charger that came with your device and only using an approved replacement battery pack (CPSC).
    • Australia: NSW Fair Trading advises looking for an electrical safety approval mark on the vehicle, battery and charger, and never using a second-hand battery because it could be damaged, modified or faulty (NSW Fair Trading).

    Many manufacturers list the safety standards their scooters are certified to. Segway, for example, says several models on its US store are tested and certified by TÜV Rheinland for UL 2272, and Apollo lists UL 2271 and UL 2272 on its Canadian product pages (Segway, Apollo). Checking for this kind of information is a good habit when comparing models.

    How to charge safely

    The London Fire Brigade’s charging advice is clear and practical (London Fire Brigade):

    • Use the charger supplied with the battery or one recommended by the manufacturer. Using the wrong charger can overload the battery.
    • Follow the manufacturer’s charging instructions.
    • Let the battery cool after a ride before you charge it.
    • Charge on a hard, flat surface where heat can escape.
    • Never leave a battery charging unattended or while you are asleep.
    • Unplug the charger once charging has finished.
    • Fit a smoke alarm where you charge, and make sure your household has an escape plan.

    Other fire services add useful points. Dublin Fire Brigade suggests charging outside where possible, never charging in the communal areas of an apartment block because they are protected escape routes, not charging in a hallway, and never covering a scooter with coats or other insulating materials while it is charging or in use (Dublin Fire Brigade). NSW Fair Trading advises against charging on flammable surfaces such as carpets or bedding (NSW Fair Trading).

    How to store your scooter and battery

    • Keep exits clear. Store and charge away from main exit routes and never block an escape path (London Fire Brigade).
    • Avoid temperature extremes. The London Fire Brigade advises protecting batteries from extreme heat or cold. Xiaomi, for example, lists a charging temperature of 0°C to 40°C and a storage temperature of -20°C to 45°C for its Electric Scooter 5 (Xiaomi).
    • Consider where large batteries live. NSW Fair Trading suggests storing large batteries in garages or sheds, away from living areas (NSW Fair Trading).
    • Do not use damaged batteries. Do not charge or use batteries that have been dropped or damaged (London Fire Brigade).

    Warning signs a battery is failing

    The London Fire Brigade lists these warning signs (London Fire Brigade):

    • Heat: batteries normally get a little warm, but one that is extremely hot to the touch may be faulty.
    • Change in shape: swelling, bulging, lumps, leaks or visible damage to the casing.
    • Noise: hissing or cracking sounds.
    • Smell: a strong or unusual chemical smell.

    Dublin Fire Brigade adds that a scooter behaving erratically could be a sign that the battery is damaged and needs replacing (Dublin Fire Brigade). If you notice any of these signs, the London Fire Brigade advises that you stop using the battery, unplug it, contact the manufacturer or retailer, and report a faulty battery to your local Trading Standards office in the UK (London Fire Brigade). In NSW you can report unsafe products to NSW Fair Trading (NSW Fair Trading).

    Never modify your battery

    OPSS lists “never” as its fifth step: do not attempt to modify or tamper with your battery (OPSS). The CPSC also warns against using modified batteries or devices with repurposed cells (CPSC). Segway’s user manual for the Max G30P tells owners not to disassemble or puncture the battery and states that there are no user-serviceable parts (Segway manual).

    What to do if a battery catches fire

    Do not try to put it out yourself. The London Fire Brigade says to get out, alert others and call 999, noting that lithium-ion battery fires can spread rapidly and produce toxic smoke (London Fire Brigade). Dublin Fire Brigade gives this sequence (Dublin Fire Brigade):

    1. Unplug the charger only if it is safe to do so.
    2. Close the door of the room to contain the fire and smoke.
    3. Get everyone out immediately.
    4. Call 999 or 112 and tell the operator an e-device is involved.
    5. Do not go back inside.

    In the US and Canada the emergency number is 911, and in Australia it is 000.

    Disposing of old batteries

    Do not put lithium batteries in household rubbish or ordinary recycling. The CPSC advises taking them to a battery recycling site or household hazardous waste collection point (CPSC). Segway’s manual also tells owners to follow local laws on battery recycling and disposal (Segway manual).

    Quick checklist

    • Bought from a known seller, with the original or manufacturer-approved charger.
    • Charging on a hard surface, away from exits, with a smoke alarm nearby.
    • Never charging overnight or while out, and unplugging when full.
    • Checking regularly for heat, swelling, noises and smells.
    • No modifications, no second-hand batteries.

    Sources

    • How to charge e-bikes and e-scooters safely (London Fire Brigade) (london-fire.gov.uk)
    • #ChargeSafe: Warning signs for e-bike and e-scooter fires (London Fire Brigade) (london-fire.gov.uk)
    • Government safety message on e-bikes and e-scooters (OPSS, GOV.UK)
    • E-scooter, e-bike and hoverboard injuries and deaths are on the rise (US CPSC) (cpsc.gov)
    • Safety Standard for Lithium-Ion Batteries Used in Micromobility Products, proposed rule (Federal Register) (federalregister.gov)
    • Fire safety for e-scooters, e-bikes and hoverboards (Dublin Fire Brigade) (dublincity.ie)
    • Lithium-ion battery safety (NSW Fair Trading) (nsw.gov.au)
    • Segway E2 Plus II Electric Scooter (Segway US official store) (store.segway.com)
    • Apollo City 2.0 (Apollo Scooters Canada) (apolloscooters.ca)
    • Xiaomi Electric Scooter 5 specs (Xiaomi UK) (mi.com)
    • Ninebot KickScooter Max G30P user manual (Segway) (store.segway.com)
  • E-scooter helmets and protective gear: the rules and standards by country

    E-scooter helmets and protective gear: the rules and standards by country

    Quick answer: Wear a properly fitted helmet every time you ride. It is a legal requirement for all e-scooter riders in Ireland (since 4 September 2026), Queensland and Victoria, and for under-18s in Ontario’s pilot and in California. In the UK it is recommended rather than required for trial rental scooters. Choose a helmet certified to a recognised standard and check the label.

    Where helmets are legally required

    Place Helmet rule for e-scooter riders Source
    UK (rental trials) Helmets are recommended but are not a legal requirement. Private e-scooters cannot legally be used on public land. GOV.UK
    Ireland Since 4 September 2026 you must wear a helmet and high-visibility clothing while using an e-scooter. Citizens Information
    California, US Riders under 18 must wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet. Vehicle Code 21235
    Ontario, Canada Pilot riders must wear a bicycle helmet if they are under 18. Riders must be at least 16. Government of Ontario
    Queensland, Australia You must wear an approved bicycle helmet or approved motorbike helmet, securely fitted and fastened. Queensland Government
    Victoria, Australia Helmets are required for e-scooter riders. Victoria Police

    US rules are set state by state and sometimes city by city, and Canadian rules vary by province and municipality, so the examples above are not the whole picture. Check your local rules before you ride.

    UK

    For rental e-scooters in official trial areas, GOV.UK says you should wear a cycle helmet that conforms to current regulations, is the correct size and is securely fastened, but that helmets are not a legal requirement (GOV.UK). The Highway Code gives the same advice to cyclists and notes that evidence suggests a correctly fitted helmet will reduce the risk of head injury in certain circumstances (Highway Code rule 59).

    Ireland

    Citizens Information states that since 4 September 2026 you must wear a helmet and high-visibility clothing while using an e-scooter. It also notes announced changes that are not yet in place, including raising the minimum age from 16 to 18 from 2 October 2026 (Citizens Information).

    Australia

    Queensland is unusually specific. An approved bicycle helmet must comply with AS 2063, AS/NZS 2063, EN 1078, CPSC 16, ASTM F1447 or Snell B-95, and an approved motorbike helmet with AS 1698, AS/NZS 1698 or UN ECE 22.05 or 22.06. The Queensland Government says to look for a sticker on the helmet certifying compliance. Limited exemptions exist for certain medical reasons and religious headdress (Queensland Government). Victoria Police lists a helmet as a requirement for e-scooter riders (Victoria Police).

    United States and Canada

    In California, Vehicle Code 21235 requires motorised scooter riders under 18 to wear a bicycle helmet that meets the standards in section 21212 (California Vehicle Code). The US CPSC goes further in its safety advice and recommends always wearing a bicycle helmet on micromobility products (CPSC). In Ontario, the provincial pilot requires a bicycle helmet for riders under 18, while municipalities decide where e-scooters can be used (Government of Ontario).

    Helmet safety standards by country

    A helmet is only as good as the testing behind it. These are the standards and labels to look for:

    • US: bicycle helmets must meet the CPSC safety standard in 16 CFR Part 1203. Under the labelling rules, a helmet should carry a label stating that it complies with the U.S. CPSC Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets, for persons aged 5 and older or aged 1 and older (eCFR 16 CFR 1203.34).
    • Australia: bicycle helmets supplied in Australia must comply with one of six standards: AS/NZS 2063:2020, AS/NZS 2063:2008, EN 1078:2012+A1:2012, US CPSC 16 CFR Part 1203, ASTM F1447-18 or Snell B-95 (ACCC).
    • Canada: helmet rules are provincial. British Columbia’s bicycle helmet regulation, for example, accepts CAN/CSA D113.2-M89, several Snell standards, ASTM F 1447 and ANSI Z90.4, and requires the helmet to be undamaged (BC Laws).
    • UK and Ireland: GOV.UK and the Highway Code ask for a helmet that conforms to current regulations. EN 1078, the European standard for helmets for pedal cyclists and skateboard and roller skate users, is one of the standards also recognised in Australia (ACCC).

    Many e-scooter brands sell their own helmets, such as the Segway Half-Face Helmet and the NIU KQi3 helmet with LED light. Whatever brand you choose, check the certification label rather than relying on the product description.

    How to choose and fit a helmet

    • Size: GOV.UK stresses the correct size and a securely fastened strap (GOV.UK).
    • Condition: BC’s regulation requires a helmet to be undamaged from use or misuse, have a smooth outer surface and a chin strap (BC Laws). Replace a helmet that has taken a hard knock.
    • Visibility: NIU’s KQi3 helmet, for example, includes a rechargeable LED light and reflective strap (NIU).
    • Speed: if you ride a faster scooter on private land, consider a helmet designed for higher speeds. Queensland’s rules show that motorbike helmet standards are also accepted for personal mobility devices (Queensland Government).

    Other protective gear

    A helmet is the minimum. Segway’s Max G30P manual tells riders to wear an approved helmet and other protective gear to minimise possible injury (Segway manual). Citizens Information advises riders to be seen, wear reflective or high-visibility clothing and personal protective gear, and not to use headphones (Citizens Information). The Highway Code notes that light-coloured or fluorescent clothing helps others see you in daylight and poor light, and that reflective clothing or accessories increase visibility in the dark (Highway Code).

    Sensible extras include:

    • High-visibility or reflective clothing, which is compulsory in Ireland.
    • Gloves, which protect your hands if you fall.
    • Knee and elbow pads, especially for new riders.
    • Sturdy closed shoes with good grip on the deck.

    Riding habits that protect you

    The CPSC recommends checking your scooter before every ride, including handlebars, brakes, throttle, bell, lights, tyres, cables and frame, keeping both hands on the handlebars, slowing down over bumps, never riding while impaired and carrying only one rider (CPSC). The CPSC also reports that emergency room injuries from micromobility products rose 127% between 2017 and 2021 to 77,200, which shows why protective gear matters (CPSC).

    Sources

    • E-scooter trials: guidance for users (GOV.UK)
    • The Highway Code: rules for cyclists (59 to 82) (GOV.UK)
    • E-scooters (Citizens Information, Ireland) (citizensinformation.ie)
    • California Vehicle Code section 21235 (california.public.law)
    • Electric kick-style scooters (e-scooters) (Government of Ontario) (ontario.ca)
    • Rules for personal mobility devices (Queensland Government) (qld.gov.au)
    • Electric powered scooters (e-scooters) (Victoria Police) (police.vic.gov.au)
    • E-scooter, e-bike and hoverboard injuries and deaths are on the rise (US CPSC) (cpsc.gov)
    • 16 CFR 1203.34 Product certification and labeling (eCFR) (ecfr.gov)
    • Bicycle helmets mandatory standard (ACCC Product Safety Australia) (productsafety.gov.au)
    • Bicycle Safety Helmet Standards Regulation, B.C. Reg. 234/96 (BC Laws) (bclaws.gov.bc.ca)
    • Segway Half-Face Helmet (Segway US official store) (store.segway.com)
    • NIU KQi3 Electric Scooter Helmet with LED Light (NIU official US shop) (shop.niu.com)
    • Ninebot KickScooter Max G30P user manual (Segway) (store.segway.com)