An initiative by the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) aims to enhance safety measures for electric scooters in Europe. The council suggests imposing a uniform speed limit of 20 km/h and introducing regulations like mandatory helmet use and a minimum age requirement of 16 for riders. These recommendations seek to standardize rules across European nations, replacing the current diverse regulatory landscape.
Furthermore, the ETSC advocates for reducing speed limits for cars, trucks, and vans in urban areas to 30 km/h or lower to mitigate risks not only for scooter riders but also for pedestrians and cyclists. By enforcing safety measures such as age restrictions, helmet mandates, and prohibiting riding under the influence, the council aims to address the risks associated with electric scooters, which have become increasingly popular for urban transport.
The call for stricter regulations comes in response to a rise in accidents involving electric scooters, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. In 2022, nearly 6000 individuals were seriously injured in electric scooter crashes across Europe, with 119 reported fatalities. The data underscores the urgent need for improved safety standards and regulatory coherence.
While Germany and Spain lead in implementing comprehensive electric scooter regulations, the U.S. lacks a cohesive national framework, leading to a patchwork of state-level rules. States like Pennsylvania have even banned electric scooters altogether, emphasizing the regulatory disparities within the U.S. landscape.
European countries have exhibited varying responses to electric scooters, with some embracing them and others imposing restrictions or bans. For instance, Parisians voted to prohibit electric scooters despite their widespread use in the city. The ETSC advocates for a unified approach across Europe, emphasizing standardized technical requirements, noise emission controls, and enhanced braking systems to ensure rider and pedestrian safety.
As the popularity of electric scooters continues to grow globally, the need for consistent regulations and safety standards becomes paramount. By harmonizing rules and enhancing safety measures, authorities can promote safer urban mobility for all road users, including electric scooter riders, cyclists, and pedestrians.
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