Trendy vehicle e-scooter
Sven Meier, president of the Verkehrsschule Zug, presents information regarding the current traffic rules concerning e-scooters in Switzerland in this news blog. Do you have any questions or uncertainties? Do not hesitate to contact him and you will receive competent information.
Motorized vehicles such as e-scooters are currently in vogue. These electrically powered micromobility options are popular, especially in cities and urban areas. However, a problem arises, in that not all vehicles in use are registered in Switzerland, and not all operators of these units are of legal age to use them. In addition, traffic rules are often not followed by users of these vehicles.
Today’s situation
E-scooter operators tend to drive and park where they please, as if the traffic rules do not apply to them. The police have noted that “Many users are often not aware of what is mandatory regarding the equipment of the vehicle and what the legal requirements are.” After all, it is simple: unlock a provider’s e-trotti using a cell phone, hop on and off and go for a wild ride. As for traffic rules, they are easily lost with this simple system. In addition, more and more vehicles are bought or ordered, sometimes from abroad, without checking whether they are approved for use on Swiss roads.
The most important facts
The laws for e-scooters are the same as those for bicycle (velo). While normal scooters may be ridden on the sidewalk, e-scooters are prohibited on the sidewalk. They must be driven in the bicycle lane, on bicycle paths or on the side of the road, where the maximum speed of 20 km/h may not be exceeded. Carrying a second person is prohibited.
E-scooters are only allowed to be used without restrictions for those 16 and up. Those between the ages of 14 and 16 require a moped permit.
Front and rear brakes, as well as a white light in the front and a red light in the rear, are mandatory (even during the day). Furthermore, a bell must be attached to the handlebars and a red reflector is required at the back. Although there is no obligation to wear a helmet, you should protect yourself with a helmet and make sure that you are clearly visible by wearing light-coloured clothing or reflective accessories.
Zug police focus on prevention
These units create new risk factors, particularly for pedestrians on sidewalks or neighbourhood streets, since many of these e-scooters are being used on the sidewalk. Increased accidents and conflict situations have prompted the Zug police to increase their focus on dialogue and prevention. Current stand campaigns and a planned awareness campaign on the private purchase of trendy vehicles are being used to inform the Zug population of the rules and hazards associated with this mode of travel.
Mutual consideration
Addressing the population is an important step in prevention, because although the development cannot be stopped, the handling of it can be influenced. Furthermore, as is often the case in road traffic situations, it is important that everyone works together in a spirit of partnership and consideration.
In the near future, it will become clear whether e-scooter drivers adhere to the traffic rules and park their vehicles in a suitable place. Otherwise, a vote and a resulting ban may soon put an end to the use of e-scooters, similar to what was done in Paris.
