Belgium to regulate electric scooters

On Wednesday, the parliamentary Mobility Committee unanimously accepted a bill regulating the use of electric scooters in traffic. There will be an age limit of sixteen and e-scooters will no longer be allowed on the pavement. The plenary chamber still has to consider the text.

The electric scooter has been a part of city life for a while. But its introduction has been accompanied by many accidents. According to the most recent road safety barometer, more and more injuries are occurring among users of electric scooters. While only 50 cases were recorded in 2019, this number has risen to 1,022 in 2021.

"By imposing clear traffic rules for e-steps as well, we guarantee road safety and avoid more injuries. This way, the e-scooter can be safely and fully integrated as a sustainable means of transport in traffic", explains MP Joris Vandenbroucke (Vooruit).

The various mobility ministers also agreed to regulate a few other aspects, such as providing lighting and decent brakes, and introducing clear parking rules for shared scooters and bikes.

(TOM)

© BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND