e-Scooters: blessing or curse? ... updated rules
There is a strong demand for micro-mobility, and we see e-scooters everywhere. Unfortunately, we also see a lot of reckless behavior from e-scooter riders.
The appropriate infrastructure is growing, but it does not match the current demand and use of e-scooters. We see all ages of e-scooter users. We see e-scooters used practically on all surfaces, like roads, pedestrian walkways, and bike lanes. Even in dedicated zones many e-scooters go without lights at night; only a minority wear helmets, protective gear and reflective safety vests.
Weaker traffic participants, especially pedestrians, get taken advantage of by the reckless behavior of e-scooter users. Other less agile road users, especially cars, often cannot react quickly enough to the swift actions of reckless e-scooter riders.
Hospitals are reporting increased numbers of e-scooter rider accidents and pedestrian injuries caused by e-scooter riders.
A all these facts call for more and urgent regulation and education on the rules. It is good that progress is made regarding age restrictions (above 16 years in Dubai) and the need for a special permit that we understand is quick and easy to obtain. We also understand that the officially allowed zones increased from 5 to 10 areas in Dubai.
Learn more about the further steps that need to be taken: e-scooters and micro-mobility
Check out the updated rules and regulations for Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Check out the Khaleej Times article we contributed to.
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