Police report broad compliance with new e-scooter rules

Police have reported broad compliance with new e-scooter regulations introduced in May, according to ORF. Officers have increased traffic checks, but are currently often issuing warnings rather than fines for violations.

E-scooters must now be equipped with a bell and indicators at both ends of the handlebars. Riders under 16 must wear helmets, and carrying a second person is prohibited. Items may only be transported in a small scooter bag or a backpack.

“We have found very positively that a large majority of e-scooters are already equipped according to the new requirements,” said Hannes Micheler of the regional traffic department.

Micheler said most riders under 16 were also complying with the helmet requirement. For violations of the new rules, police are currently more likely to issue warnings than financial penalties.

Alcohol-related offences are an exception. The 0.5 permille limit also applies to e-scooter riders, and violations can result in fines of several hundred euros. Police recorded 63 alcohol-related e-scooter crashes during the quarter, Micheler said.

There were 84 e-scooter crashes involving injuries between April and June. Micheler said the actual number was likely higher because such accidents often go unreported.