Police stop e-scooter speeders: 50 km/h without registration!

Police stop e-scooter speeders: 50 km/h without registration!

On Friday evening around 7:20 p.m., an e-scooter driver was checked by a police patrol in Lage. The 40-year-old was driving a conspicuous electric vehicle that had no insurance license plate. During the check it turned out that the e-scooter was not street legal in Germany because it can reach speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour. The police then seized the vehicle because it did not meet legal requirements.

In Germany there are clear regulations for the operation of e-scooters. According to the Small Electric Vehicle Ordinance (EKfV), such vehicles must have a valid operating license and are subject to compulsory insurance. LZ.de reports that a license plate is required to drive in traffic and a maximum speed of 20 kilometers per hour must not be exceeded.

Regulations and security

The use of e-scooters is currently being revised to improve road safety, given the increasing number of accidents resulting in serious personal injuries. Various new regulations are planned to come into force from 2025, with a transition period of one year. Newly registered e-scooters will in future have to be equipped with indicators and separate front and rear brakes. In addition, e-scooters should in future be allowed to drive where cycling is permitted.

However, on sidewalks and in pedestrian zones, e-scooters are only allowed to drive at walking speed and with pedestrians in mind. Turning at red lights will also be permitted in the future under the same conditions as for cyclists, which should offer drivers more flexibility. E-scooter drivers do not need a driving license or a moped test certificate, although the minimum age is 14 years.

Responsibility and risks

In addition, victim protection in accidents involving e-scooters remains an unsolved problem. Currently, injured parties must prove personal fault in order to receive compensation. Wearing a helmet is recommended, but not required by law. During traffic controls, e-scooter drivers must also observe alcohol limits, which are similar to the rules for drivers.

In the event of violations, fines can quickly arise. For example, driving without an insurance plate is punished with 40 euros, while driving on the sidewalk carries a fine of 15 to 30 euros. Further violations, such as running a red light, can be punished with up to 180 euros. These regulations serve to increase safety in urban areas and protect users of e-scooters while they operate on the road. Information about these regulations can be found on pages such as ADAC.de to find.