Sharing the road with e-scooters

By the end of this topic you can

• You can explain why e-scooter riders are vulnerable road users.
• You can leave enough space when overtaking an e-scooter.
• You can check for e-scooters at junctions, in mirrors and before opening doors.
• You can predict common e-scooter movements, such as swerving round potholes.
• You can respond calmly when a rider does something unexpected.

What you need to know and understand

• The hierarchy of road users (Highway Code rule H1) says those who can cause the greatest harm have the greatest responsibility to reduce the danger they pose to others.
• Rental trial e-scooters are limited to 15.5 mph, and some areas set lower limits, so you will often catch them up.
• Trial e-scooters can use roads and cycle lanes, but not pavements or motorways.
• The Highway Code does not set a separate passing distance for e-scooters. Treat riders like cyclists and give at least 1.5 metres when passing at up to 30 mph (rule 163 guidance for cyclists).
• Small wheels make e-scooters more affected by potholes, drain covers and wet surfaces, so riders may swerve.
• You may still see private e-scooters being ridden illegally. Whether a rider is legal or not, your duty to drive safely is the same.

Why riders need extra space

An e-scooter rider stands on a narrow deck with small wheels and no protection. A pothole that a car would barely notice can throw them off balance. Riders may also be new to the scooter, as rental schemes make it easy to try one with no experience.

Give them space and time. Expect them to move out to avoid drains, potholes or parked cars, and never squeeze past in a narrow gap.

Overtaking an e-scooter safely

If there is not enough room, wait behind at a safe distance. Riders are moving at a reasonable speed, so you will rarely lose much time.

1. Check the road ahead is clear for long enough to pass without cutting in.
2. Check mirrors and signal if it helps others.
3. Move out early and leave at least 1.5 metres, more at higher speeds or in bad weather.
4. Pass steadily, without revving or sounding the horn.
5. Do not cut back in until you can see the rider well behind you.

Hot spots: junctions, doors and cycle lanes

• Turning left: check your left mirror and blind spot for a rider coming up the inside or along a cycle lane before you turn.
• Emerging: e-scooters are narrow and can be hidden by parked vehicles or roadside furniture. Look carefully and look again.
• Opening a door: use the Dutch Reach, opening the door with the hand furthest from it so you turn and look behind.
• Cycle lanes: do not drive or park in a mandatory cycle lane, as riders may use it.
• At night: e-scooters can be poorly lit. Scan the road edges and use dipped headlights properly.

When a rider gets it wrong

You may see a rider on the pavement, carrying a passenger or riding through a red light. Stay calm. Do not chase, block or confront them. Slow down, give space and be ready for sudden movements. Your job is to keep everyone safe, not to enforce the law.

Common mistakes

• Passing too close because the rider is in a cycle lane. Still give plenty of room.
• Turning left across a rider. Check your left mirror and blind spot first.
• Opening a car door without looking. Use the Dutch Reach.
• Assuming a rider will hold a straight line. Expect swerves around potholes and drains.
• Getting frustrated and overtaking on a bend. Wait for a safe, clear stretch.

Test yourself: Sharing the road with e-scooters

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Mobility Scooters on the Road
• The Road User and the Law
• Sharing the Road With Motorcycles