New Electric Scooter Usage Rules Introduced in Tirana
In a joint effort by Tirana Traffic Police and Municipal Police, a campaign has been conducted to raise awareness among users of electric scooters and bicycles about road safety regulations.
Reported by ACP.al, violation of these rules by electric scooter users could result in fines ranging from 250 to 1000 lek (equivalent to 3 to 9 euros), while bicycle users may face fines ranging from 500 to 2000 lek (equivalent to 5 to 18 euros).
- Cyclists and electric scooter riders must refrain from making sudden turns or zigzag movements while on the road, as these actions could endanger following vehicles.
- Travel should strictly occur on the right-hand side and designated lanes (when available). When crossing a busy road, they should proceed promptly while walking alongside their transport, holding it by hand.
- Approaching intersections, adherence to the traffic signal system is mandatory. Speed must be reduced to a full stop, and precautions should be taken for safe passage, including timely hand signals.
- All vehicles must be in good working condition with functional brake systems.
- Drivers and passengers are required to wear protective helmets approved for use within the European Union territory (CE marking).
- For a period of half an hour after sunset throughout dim light conditions and during the day when atmospheric conditions demand visibility,
- Bicycles and electric scooters lacking appropriate visual signaling systems should not be used. Instead, they can be manually walked. Drivers must have at least one hand on the handlebars, maintain forward visibility, and execute necessary maneuvers with maximal freedom.
- Towing of vehicles and the transportation of animals are prohibited, as well as being towed by another vehicle.
- In specified vehicles, a maximum of 4 adults, including drivers, can be carried; simultaneous transportation of two children under 10 years of age is allowed.
- Transporting others on bicycles is forbidden unless they are designed and equipped for such purposes. However, the driver of the main vehicle can carry a child up to 6 years of age, properly secured with necessary equipment, consisting of suitable seating with hand, foot, and back support.
- The seating should not exceed the dimensions of the bicecle. It should be positioned to avoid obstructing the driver's view and movement. This seating must feature protective measures for the child's hands and feet.
As reported by The Gaze, electric scooter rentals will be prohibited in Paris from September 1.
This decision follows the results of a city referendum on the use of electric scooters, in which over 100,000 Parisians participated. 89% of the participants voted in favor of the ban. The referendum was conducted due to concerns about the problems caused by scattered scooters throughout the city, especially with regards to user safety.
With the rising popularity of two-wheeled vehicles, particularly among the youth, the number of accidents has increased. In 2022, three people died, and 459 were injured in electric scooter accidents in Paris.