E-scooters still cause problems

The German Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt) has published its report on very small electric vehicles after a three-year research project. Among other things, it scientifically investigated accident occurrences and causes involving e-scooters as the largest vehicle group. In addition, surveys were conducted on user behavior and experiences. Among other things, it became clear that individual misconduct on the electric scooters, lack of knowledge of the rules and driving errors are frequent causes of accidents, emphasizes the German Road Safety Association (DVW). Insufficient protection against injuries and obstructions caused by incorrectly parked vehicles are also named as problems.

The results of the evaluation are largely consistent with the catalog of measures for e-scooter safety that the DVW developed together with rental providers and published at the beginning of this year. Since the introduction of the new vehicle category four years ago, Verkehrswacht has also been offering e-scooter training courses to prevent users from making driving errors. In a position paper, the association has also agreed with the rental companies Bolt, Lime and Voi on further measures to increase safety. These include increased education about important traffic rules and safe behavior. For example, e-scooteroft riders are drunk on the sidewalk without a permit or are prohibited from riding in pairs. However, the report also notes that rule knowledge is higher with rental vehicles than with private use.

The Deutsche Verkehgrswacht is in favor of simplifying the rules or orienting them more strongly to bicycle traffic, especially for the use of traffic areas - something that the BASt has also included as a specific recommendation. The wearing of a bicycle helmet is also recommended. In addition, technical solutions should be developed that prevent the wrong or unauthorized parking of the scooter, so as not to hinder people with limited mobility. (aum)