Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in urban mobility in recent years in France. They are found absolutely everywhere in large cities as well as in small towns. Their popularity is explained by the numerous advantages they present: light, fast, practical, economical and ecological. With the increase in the number of electric scooters on the road, we have observed a sharp increase in accidents. In this article, Weebot shows you how to avoid accidents with an electric scooter and ensure your safety.
The main causes of electric scooter accidents
Failure to comply with regulations on electric scooters
A large part of electric scooter accidents can be explained by neglect of traffic rules. For example, we may see users running a red light, ignoring the priority rule on the right or taking a lane that is not suitable for electric scooters. These irresponsible behaviors can cause collisions leading to serious damage for the electric scooter user but also for other users who share the road.
Excessive speed
The maximum authorized speed for an electric scooter is 25 km/h both in town and outside towns. This limitation was set to respond to the growing number of accidents. We know that many users decide to unlock their electric scooter. With models that can reach speeds of 100 km/h once unrestrained, the risk of a serious accident is increased tenfold.
The lack of vigilance
Many users lack vigilance when traveling on an electric scooter. They are sometimes distracted by music for example and therefore do not pay attention to the environment around them. So, with such little vigilance, they may not see a car coming towards them for example, or ignore an obstacle on the road. However, we know that vigilance is essential on the road and can drastically reduce the risk of an accident.
Electric scooter vs car accident
With very heavy traffic in large cities, electric scooter accidents often involve cars. It is important to know how to react in the event of an accident and to be informed about insurance regulations.
What to do in the event of an electric scooter accident with a car?
- Stay safe to avoid another accident.
- Check to see if you are injured and ask the driver if he or she is okay.
- Notify the emergency services if necessary.
- Notify your insurer.
- Keep in touch with the driver of the car to discuss the accident and assert your rights.
Is insurance required for electric scooters?
Yes, to ride an electric scooter, you must be insured at least for civil liability. In the event of an accident, this allows you to avoid having to pay costs for the third party involved in the accident. Electric scooter insurance allows you to comply with regulations and therefore avoid a fine of €3,750.
Electric scooter safety rules
Wear suitable equipment
Riding an electric scooter can be dangerous. In fact, users can use roads with vehicles going much faster than them. And they are absolutely not protected in the event of a collision (unlike a car that has a body). For these reasons, it is essential to wear the appropriate safety equipment. The essential accessory that should accompany you on all your journeys is the helmet. It protects your skull and prevents you from serious injuries. Then, we recommend that you wear gloves, knee pads and elbow pads to avoid fractures during falls or accidents.
Know and respect the regulations
There regulations for 2024 on electric scooters was recently published. We encourage you to consult it to find out all the traffic rules that apply to your practice. This allows you to anticipate dangers and avoid being surprised during your journeys. As the regulations are regularly updated, we recommend that you keep yourself informed to always comply with the highway code.
Be attentive to your environment
Not paying attention to your surroundings is a common mistake that can cause accidents. You must therefore always remain as vigilant as possible, watch for cars and pedestrians around you, and anticipate potential dangers. If you are not attentive, you are more exposed to the risk of accidents and dangerous situations for yourself and for other users who share the road.
Common mistakes to avoid when traveling on an electric scooter
- Use cycle paths whenever they are available
- Regularly maintain and service your scooter
- Avoid driving in the rain
- Do not take passengers behind you
- Respect the safety distances
- Equip your scooter with a powerful lighting system to always be visible
- Stay attentive to your surroundings and avoid distractions (headphones, smartphone, etc.)
How many accidents are there involving electric scooters each year?
In France, during the year 2023, we can estimate the number of injuries on electric scooters at around 3,000. This figure continues to increase from year to year. The number of seriously injured is 640 and the number of deaths is increased to 42.
These increasing figures are alarming, especially since the number of accidents on the road (all types of vehicle combined) is decreasing from year to year.
You must therefore be as vigilant as possible to avoid accidents with an electric scooter.
FAQ
Can I carry a passenger on my electric scooter?
No, carrying a passenger on your electric scooter is strictly prohibited, regardless of their age. Once again, ignoring this traffic rule exposes you to a fine of €135.
You must always be alone on your machine. This allows you to avoid distractions and drive as safely as possible.
How to be visible day and night on an electric scooter?
Being visible to all road users when riding an electric scooter helps you avoid dangerous collisions. To do this, you must equip your scooter with a powerful and functional lighting system. Remember to regularly check the condition of your front and rear lights. Also, you can wear reflective clothing for maximum visibility. Finally, you can stick reflective stickers on your scooter or your helmet for example.