New electric scooter regulation: Do you need a driving license?
introduction
In recent years, electric scooters have become very popular around the world due to their convenience and environmental friendliness. Many people choose electric scooters as a means of transportation for short distances and to enjoy the conveniences of city life. However, this also raises questions about the legality of electric scooters.
Do you need a driving license to drive an electric scooter in Germany? This question concerns many people who want to try out this new form of transportation. Don't worry, in this article you will find a detailed answer to this question and learn more about the relevant regulations for electric scooters in Germany.
Legalization of electric scooters in Germany: a revolution in road traffic
In 2019, the German government officially allowed electric scooters on public roads, starting a revolution in German transportation. This decision not only meets people's desire for comfortable transportation, but also offers new ideas to relieve city traffic.
What is an electric scooter?
Electric scooters are defined in German law as "small electric vehicles" and their maximum speed is usually limited to 20 kilometers per hour. They have the following characteristics
- Power source: Battery powered, EVERCROSS uses the latest development of electric motors and lithium-ion batteries, the range is short, powerful.
- Simple construction: Usually with two wheels and no seat, the electric scooters are made of aluminum alloy, carbon fiber or stainless steel.
- Speed limit: The maximum speed is no more than 20 km/h.
Difference between electric scooters and other vehicles
To better understand the legal status of electric scooters in Germany, it is necessary to distinguish them from other vehicles:
- Electric bicycle: E-bikes have pedals and can be powered by human power, EVERCROSS e-bikes can also be ridden in pure electric mode, the range of different models of e-bikes is different, EK30 has a range of 60km, EK6 has a range of 90km and so on, while e-scooters mainly rely on electric motors to power them.
- Electric motorcycles: Electric motorcycles are faster and require a driving license, whereas electric scooters do not.
German electric scooter driving license regulation: You must know the driving qualifications
- Age limit: In Germany, anyone aged 14 or over can ride an electric scooter without having a driving license.
- Physical condition: Drivers should be in good physical condition and be able to maneuver the vehicle safely.
driving regulations
- Designated lanes: Electric scooters may only be ridden on bike paths, not on sidewalks or highways.
- Parallel ban: It is forbidden to ride several electric scooters next to each other.
- Prohibition of passenger transport: Electric scooters may only be driven by one person and may not transport passengers.
- Driving at night: When driving at night, electric scooters must be equipped with front and rear lights to improve visibility.
safety equipment
- Helmet: Although wearing a helmet is not required by law in Germany, it is strongly recommended for your safety.
- Reflective clothing: In low light conditions, reflective clothing is recommended to increase the likelihood of being seen by other vehicles.
Insurance and liability insurance for electric scooters
- Compulsory insurance: In Germany, e-scooters must have liability insurance. In the event of a traffic accident, the insurance company is liable for compensation.
- Types of Insurance: There are a variety of electric scooter insurance policies available in the market, and consumers can choose the right insurance product depending on their needs.
Liability in Traffic Accidents
- Driver liability: If the driver of the electric scooter violates the traffic rules and causes a traffic accident, he/she will bear the corresponding legal responsibility.
- Liability: If an electric scooter driver is involved in a traffic accident that was the fault of another party, he can claim compensation from the other party.
The Future of Electric Scooters: Opportunities and Challenges
The promotion of electric scooters as a new mobility instrument in Germany faces both opportunities and challenges.
opportunities
- Traffic relief: Electric scooters can effectively reduce traffic congestion in cities, especially for short distances.
- Environmentally friendly travel: Electric scooters are emission-free, which is in line with the idea of environmental protection.
- The development of the sharing economy: The emergence of electric scooter sharing platforms offers people a more convenient way to travel.
challenges
- Traffic safety problems: Electric scooter riders have weak traffic safety awareness, which can easily lead to traffic accidents.
- Inadequate infrastructure: Bicycle lanes are not well equipped in some cities, which hampers the passage of electric scooters.
- Inadequate laws and regulations: The laws and regulations regarding e-scooters still need to be further improved.
conclusion
The development of electric scooters in Germany has brought people more choices for their travels. However, while we enjoy the convenience, we should also follow the relevant traffic rules to ensure the safety of ourselves and others.
Warm Tips
- Laws and regulations are constantly updated: To get the most accurate information about the laws and regulations regarding scooters, we recommend that you consult the official website of the German Federal Ministry of Transport.
- Safety first: When driving a motorized scooter, pay attention to road safety and obey traffic rules.
- Civilized driving: As scooter riders, we have a responsibility to contribute to a good urban traffic environment.