Herald - Issue 413

v WE’VE BEEN YOUR LOCAL SINCE 1994 v 7th October 2021 • The HERALD • Page 67 VAUXTECH LOCAL GARAGE Tel: 023 8086 9496 Unit 5, New Forest Enterprise Centre, Totton, Southampton SO40 9LA LOCAL GARAGE EST 23 YEARS • Servicing & Repairs • MOT’s (arranged) • Brakes • Clutches • Tyres • Air Conditioning • Collection & Delivery Locally Friendly & Reliable Onsite Café Facilities All Makes & Models now taking place in more than 30 locations across England, there’s no doubt they’re going to become even more popular on our roads as they offer a cheap, easy and environmentally friendly way for people to get around. However, with the rise in the number of people using E-scooters comes an increase in risk for all road users, including motorists who have an additional hazard to look out for. So far this year, Admiral has seen a spike in the number of accidents reported to us involving E-scooter riders, with 52 registered to date. Although this may not sound like a lot, it’s a big difference compared to the start of last year where there were just 13 accidents reported to us in total from January to June 2020. As the world of transport is evolving, it’s important all road users understand the current rules in place for using E-scooters to avoid being hit with hefty fines, penalty points or even having the device seized. The rules currently state that anyone who owns a private E-scooter cannot ride on public roads, pavements or cycle lanes. As it’s illegal to do so, if caught, riders could be given an on-the-spot fine. In fact, only permitted rental E-scooters are allowed to be used in certain English towns and cities taking part in the trials across the UK. These scooters have a top speed limit of 15 mph and riders must only use them on the road and cycle lanes or again, risk being handed a fixed penalty notice. When lockdown restrictions ease across the UK and people start commuting once again, we want to remind all road users to be more alert to try and prevent serious accidents. Motorists need to be aware of the additional E-scooter traffic and be extra vigilant, while anyone looking to hire the devices need to keep themselves and others safe. Before taking an E-scooter out for a spin remember to wear a helmet, make sure you have a valid provisional driving licence and double check the rental E-scooter operator has the correct insurance so that you know you’re protected in case of an accident.” The data analysis from Admiral Insurance reveals a rise in E-scooter claims this year. Adam Gavin, Deputy Head of Claims, said: “With E-scooter trials Insurance Giant Issues a Warning for E-scooter Users Calling all Coders! Would you like to make your own computer games? Are you aged between 9-13 years old? If so, then why not join the Code Club at Hythe Library! e Club runs during term time on Thursdays from 3.45pm to 4.45pm and is open to anyone keen to learn how to make games, animations and so much more. Call 023 8084 3574 to secure your space! Walking for Health We all know that walking outdoors in the fresh air can increase mental and physical wellness, so why not join this new group for a 3-mile walk around Lepe Country Park at a leisurely pace. Meeting at 9.30am every Thursday outside e Lookout this is the perfect place to get your dose of Vitamin Sea! ey will be doing a circular walk which will include Lepe Point Conservation Area where dogs, unfortunately are not permitted. Contact Janet at Lepe Country Park on: 023 8089 9108 for more information. ere is free parking for everyone who attends. Are you over 55 and want to make the most of life once you’re no longer in full time work by exploring and sharing new ideas, skills and interests with your local u3a? Across the UK, u3a members are learning, staying active and having fun in later life. It’s local, social, friendly, low- cost and open to all. Totton u3a is now open to new members so why not join them . They meet every second Wednesday of each month at 1.45pm in Lexby Hall, Lexby Road, Totton. Various interest groups meet throughout the month to participate in learning and leisure activities and perhaps you can bring a new skill to share with others. For more information just contact: 07845 237053, or email: michaela.page@btinternet.com or just go along to their monthly meetings. Give it a try; you can be sure of a warm welcome! Join Totton u3a