In recent years, new vehicles have been invading French city streets. Electric scooters, sometimes called NVEI (Nouveaux Véhicules Électriques Individuels), offer new solutions for getting around safely and responsibly. In everyone’s interest, the government has decided to regulate these electric vehicles more specifically, to ensure the safety of all and limit dangerous behavior.
Highway code and electric scooters
With the adoption of the decree in 2019, the driving of electric scooters is now taken into account in the application of the Highway Code. For a long time, EDPMs remained in a gray area where they were neither completely accepted on pedestrian walkways nor completely accepted on the road. Today, all these new vehicles must comply with specific regulations.
The law is clear: children under the age of 12 are not allowed to drive an electric scooter.
Ride in moderation
Electric scooters may be a great way to get around more cleanly and avoid traffic jams, but there are some simple rules to follow!
Unless authorized by the town hall, it is strictly forbidden to use sidewalks. In built-up areas, electric scooters must be used on cycle paths or, failing that, on roads with a 50km/h speed limit. Outside built-up areas, only cycle paths or greenways may be used.
⇒ Be careful, if you don’t respect the Highway Code, you could be fined €135.
Regarding the speed of your vehicle, most models on the market are limited to 25 km/h. If you disable your electric scooter, you could be fined up to €1,500.
Beware of distractions
When driving an electric scooter, it’s vital to be aware of other vehicles and to behave responsibly. The rule is simple: 1 scooter = 1 person, and no more!
Vigilance and attention are essential for safe driving, so put away your phone and headphones for the duration of your journey. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, be careful not to block the sidewalk where permitted, and park in dedicated spaces!
Carrying another person or driving while wearing headphones reduces your alertness and represents a risk, which could result in a fine.
⇒ It would be silly to have to pay €35 because you were too distracted by your favorite artist’s latest song or left your car in the middle of the sidewalk.
Essential equipment for safe riding
On average, ⅓ of injuries caused by a scooter accident are localized to the head. For the time being, there’s no law requiring you to wear a helmet in town, however it’s very strongly recommended that you do when riding an electric scooter.
Since July 1, 2020, it has been mandatory to fit your scooter withsafety equipment. It must have a braking system, an audible warning (horn) and position lights (front and rear). Don’t forget that you’re most vulnerable at night or in poor light, so get out your best retro-reflective vest and shine in safety.
⇒ If you’re not properly equipped, you risk a €35 fine for each item of compulsory safety equipment missing!
Compulsory insurance?
With these new regulations, you’re probably wondering whether it’s necessary to have electric scooter insurance ? The answer is yes, when you drive an electric scooter you must be insured, at the very least by civil liability coverage. This covers you in the event of damage caused to others, but it may also be worth finding out about specific insurance products to cover you in the event of theft or damage to your scooter.
⇒ Electric scooter insurance will cost you just a few euros a month and help you avoid a €3,750 fine! So make the right choice 😉
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