Tyrol cracks down on electric scooters and e-bikes with tougher safety rules

Stricter rules for electric scooters and e-bikes are on the way in Tyrol. Police will soon increase checks on riders, focusing on safety equipment and behaviour. The changes come as electric scooter accidents rise sharply in the region.

Electric scooter crashes have surged, with injuries up by over 30% compared to last year. Authorities blame excessive speed and riders overestimating their skills. In response, helmets will now be compulsory for e-bike riders under 14 and electric scooter users under 16.

Police operations will target bicycles, e-bikes, and electric scooters, inspecting equipment and riding habits. Technical checks may also be carried out on electric scooters. The new rules classify electric scooters as vehicles, not small mobility devices, meaning they must meet stricter standards.

Under the proposed regulations, e-mopeds will be banned from bike lanes and restricted to roads. Additional safety features, such as turn signals and bells, will become mandatory for all electric scooters and e-bikes.

The updated rules aim to reduce accidents and improve road safety. Riders will face more inspections and must comply with new equipment requirements. The changes are set to take effect in the coming months.