Drivers risk breaking Highway Code rule by blocking pavement with electric car cables

Due to more electric cars using on-street charging points, the long cables can cause hazards by running a cable over public footpaths or highways.

A recent survey found that EV drivers prefer to charge at home overnight, citing both the cheaper costs and convenience as key reasons.

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While it isnot illegal to run an EV cable across a pavement, if it causes injuries to a pedestrian then the owner can be found liable and may be prosecuted.

In certain areas, drivers may also need permission from the local council to run cables across a public path.

Lambeth Council, for example details: “We do not permit cables to be dragged across the pavement in any circumstance. This includes the use of cable protectors or cable gullies.”

Under rule 239 of the Highway Code, it states that drivers should park close to the charge point and avoid creating a trip hazard for pedestrians using trailing cables.

The code adds: “Display a warning sign if you can. After using the charge point, you should return charging cables and connectors neatly to minimise the danger to pedestrians and avoid creating an obstacle for other road users.”

The warning comes after a survey revealed that over half of Britons are not planning to make the switch to driving an electric car.

The data revealed that one in five drivers were reluctant about how good the charging infrastructure will be.

A further four per cent blame the cost of installing a home charging device as a main barrier for not buying an electric car.

Greg Wilson, CEO at Quotezone.co.uk said: “As the number of electric vehicles increases, we have to look at the challenges many face with charging.

“Without off-street parking, it can be tricky to charge your EV safely and owners need to be careful they don’t put themselves and pedestrians at risk.

“Steps such as remaining with the vehicle and covering the cables will help make it safer, but cables running across the path is not ideal and the only option for many.

“Installing a cable gully is a good way to overcome this problem - but drivers will need council permission.”

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As of April 2023, on street charging devices accounted for 34 per cent of all charging devices in the UK.

Wilson added: “Ultimately, safety is paramount however you charge your vehicle, and hopefully the government’s increased investments in the UK charging infrastructure will open up many other charging possibilities for drivers across the country.”