The “Future of Transport: rural strategy – call for evidence” by the Department for Transport closed on February 16, and now the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) has revealed its response to the consultation.
Taking centre stage are electric scooters, which at present are illegal.
“We understand the government is keen to legalise e-scooters but would urge government to consider how victims of inevitable accidents will receive compensation,” wrote BIBA executive director Graeme Trudgill in the trade body’s response.
“We therefore propose that e-scooters be legalised subject to the following: use, compensation for victims, safety, and light touch.”
Here are BIBA’s recommendations:
|
Area |
Proposal |
|
Use |
“BIBA supports the use of certain e-scooters on cycle lanes and public roads, but not on pavements.” |
|
Compensation for victims |
“BIBA suggests a new low-level minimal insurance requirement unique to this new form of travel of £2 million to £5 million third-party liability.” |
|
Safety |
“We set out several ideas for a sensible approach including compulsory use of cycle helmets along with requirements to have lights, alerting devices, a maximum speed of 12.5mph, and maximum power of 350W. We also believe a compulsory online safety assessment is required.” |
|
Light touch |
“To encourage the greater uptake of e-scooters we would not require a driving licence or motorcycle helmet or unlimited Road Traffic Act insurance.” |
BIBA’s rural strategy consultation submission also examined the subjects of charging facilities for electric vehicles, young drivers and telematics, automated vehicles, and car sharing.
On automated vehicles, Trudgill stated: “The advancement of automated vehicles can also assist road safety in rural areas.
“BIBA is keen for the UK to be a leader in this technology; however, it is vital that technology is proven to have passed the Thatcham Research safety tests before being introduced and accepted and therefore insurable.”
