In response to a sharp rise in accidents involving electric scooters, the German cabinet has approved a draft law that significantly tightens liability rules for riders. The move aims to streamline compensation for victims, who previously often struggled to prove gross negligence by e-scooter users. Under the new rules, liability will apply even in cases of simple negligence, making it easier for those injured or with damaged property to secure payouts. This change comes as accident numbers have more than tripled since e-scooters were legalized in 2019, with frequent collisions in cities often blamed on sidewalk riding or excessive speed. Transport Minister Volker Wissing emphasized that the reform is about enhancing safety and legal certainty for all road users. The draft law now heads to parliament for debate, where experts anticipate swift passage given cross-party recognition of the e-scooter safety issue. For riders, the message is clear: exercise greater caution and consider liability insurance, while victims stand to benefit from a smoother path to justice in Germany’s evolving urban mobility landscape.
Implement the turning point in civil defense
Rettungsdienstes — Deutscher Bundestag
