University of Bristol researchers find e-scooters could be reducing cycling accidents across the city. But concerns remain over pavement clutter, battery fires, and the long-term legality of privately-owned scooters.
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00:00Bristol's e-scooter trial, initially meant to last a year, has now been extended until
00:08May 2026. Researchers at the University of Bristol have revealed some surprising findings
00:14that bicycle collisions have fallen by 20% since e-scooters were introduced. This supports
00:20what's known as the safety in numbers theory, suggesting drivers become more cautious when
00:26surrounded by more vulnerable road users like cyclists and e-scooter riders. However,
00:33it's not all good news. Concerns persist across Bristol and the West Country over issues
00:40such as e-scooters being abandoned on pavements, which of course poses significant problems
00:45for pedestrians, particularly those who are visually impaired. Additionally, safety worries
00:52surrounding electric battery fires continue to provoke public unease. With privately
00:58owned scooters still illegal, the future legal status of e-scooters remains uncertain. Councils
01:06across our region are closely watching Bristol's trial outcomes before deciding their next
01:12steps. Local campaigners say Bristol needs clearer rules and better infrastructure, such
01:19as dedicated scooter lanes to keep all road users safe if e-scooters become a permanent
01:26part of daily life. Meanwhile, Avon Fire and Rescue Service have urged residents to remain
01:33cautious when charging e-scooter batteries at home, highlighting recent incidents involving
01:39lithium-ion batteries and fires.