Yesterday, we held Op LYCRA in Maidenhead Town Centre to stop, disrupt, and educate the public about the use of e-scooters. Given the rise in their use, we announced on Facebook beforehand that enforcement action would be taken. Our aim was not to penalise people without first offering education, nor to seize what may have been a valued Christmas or birthday gift.

We also made the decision not to report riders for the offence of using a motor vehicle on a road or public place without third-party insurance, contrary to Section 143 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and Schedule 2 to the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988—an offence that carries 6 points and a £300 fine. Instead, where the offence was admitted, riders were provided with educational material regarding the lawful use of e-scooters and PLEVs. However, repeat offences will result in the rider being reported to court.

All e-scooters were seized and collected by our partner agency, The Mansfield Group. To reclaim their vehicles, owners must pay a minimum recovery fee of £192, plus an additional charge for each day in storage. Unclaimed vehicles will be sent for destruction.

This operation was a successful trial, and we will be conducting more at various times and key hotspots across RBWM. If you know someone who uses an e-scooter or PLEV, please let them know about this enforcement action. Schools, in particular, are encouraged to pass this message on to pupils and parents. These vehicles not only pose a risk to riders and other road users, but parents can also face prosecution for permitting their use.

Stay safe,

PC Jenkins
Maidenhead South