ETSC e-scooter safety report

A new report published by the European Transport Safety Council calls for the development of mandatory technical requirements for all e-scooters sold in the EU to replace the current patchwork of national requirements, and voluntary standards.

The standards should include a speed limiter set at 20 km/h as well as stability, minimum braking and maximum acceleration requirements, according to ETSC.

The researchers recommend that national governments set a minimum age of 16 years for e-scooter riders, a requirement for mandatory helmets, as well as a ban on riding after consuming alcohol or drugs or riding with passengers. 

Jenny Carson, co-author of the report said: “E-scooters are now an established and popular way of getting around in urban areas in the EU. However, they also come with a degree of risk that needs addressing more effectively.”