What is the maximum speed allowed on an electric scooter?
The popularity of electric scooters has exploded in recent years. Practical, ecological and economical, they have quickly established themselves as an alternative of choice for urban journeys. However, with their growth, questions of safety and regulation arise. One of the major concerns concerns the maximum speed authorized for these vehicles.
This article explores the different legislations in force and the issues related to the speed of electric scooters.
Regulations in France
In France, the legislation on electric scooters has evolved to adapt to their proliferation. Since October 2019, electric scooters have been officially included in the Highway Code. The maximum authorized speed for these machines is set at 25 km/h. This limitation was put in place to ensure the safety of users and pedestrians.
In built-up areas, it is forbidden to ride on sidewalks, unless an exception is indicated by a town hall. In this case, the speed must not exceed 6 km/h. Outside of urban areas, the use of electric scooters is limited to greenways and cycle paths.
Regulations in other European countries
Regulations vary considerably across Europe. For example, in Germany, the maximum speed limit is also 20 km/h, while in Spain it is 25 km/h. In Italy, scooters can travel at a maximum speed of 20 km/h on the road and 6 km/h in pedestrian areas. These variations show the diversity of European approaches to road safety.
Security issues
Limiting the speed of electric scooters addresses several safety concerns. Excessive speed can lead to serious accidents for both riders and pedestrians. Since electric scooters are often used in dense urban areas, controlled speed is essential to avoid collisions.
In addition, urban infrastructure is not always adapted to the rapid movement of scooters. Cycle paths, pedestrian crossings and sidewalks can quickly become dangerous if the speed of scooters is not controlled.
Additional security measures
In addition to the speed limit, other safety measures have been put in place. Wearing a helmet , although not mandatory in France for electric scooter users, is strongly recommended. In addition, lighting and reflective devices are essential to ensure the visibility of scooters, especially at night.
Conclusion
The maximum speed allowed for electric scooters is a crucial issue to ensure the safety of all road users. In France, this speed is set at 25 km/h, a compromise between practicality and safety. It is essential for users to respect this limitation and comply with other safety measures to avoid accidents.
With the continued rise of electric scooters, it is likely that regulations will continue to evolve. Riders must stay informed of current laws and adopt responsible behaviors to ensure this mode of transportation remains a safe and viable option for all.
