Parents and retailers could face prosecution amid a surge in children injured in electric scooter crashes, police have warned.

Police Scotland say buyers are responsible for being aware of the law and the implications when e-scooters are ridden illegally on roads or pavements.

They say enforcement action can be taken against riders and ‘those who purchase’ e-scooters – including parents buying them for children.

Penalties can include confiscation and fines. Causing injury will be dealt with in the same way as when a car or motorbike is involved.

The crackdown comes amid concerns some retailers are failing to clearly warn buyers about the laws despite rules requiring the restrictions to be prominently displayed.

The UK Government – which regulates e-scooters – confirmed that retailers must clearly state e-scooters cannot be used on public roads. 

A spokesman said: ‘It is illegal to ride privately owned e-scooters on public roads, cycle lanes or pavements and any retailer who doesn’t make this clear at the point of sale is breaking the law.’

Scottish Liberal Democrats communities spokesman Willie Rennie said many don’t realise how dangerous the scooters can be. 

He added: ‘They are also largely unaware of the law when it comes to riding them out and about.’

Scottish Conservative justice spokesman Liam Kerr warned e-scooters have become a ‘serious threat to public safety’.

He said: ‘These dangerous vehicles can reach speeds of up to 60mph when modified, putting riders and the wider public at risk.’

According to Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children, e-scooters and e-bikes are one of the ‘most common causes of major trauma admissions’.

Jenna Hills, major trauma co-ordinator, added: ‘The injuries we’re treating range from broken bones through to head, facial and skull injuries.’

Regulators are concerned e-scooters are being marketed in stores and online as suitable for everyday use. One children’s e-scooter is described as: ‘Your ticket to zooming around the neighbourhood’.

Police Scotland said: ‘We urge parents and carers to consider the dangers of e-scooters before buying one.’

The Scottish Government said: ‘We have urged the UK Government to take action in this area.’