Monday, January 4, 2021

Road safety: what equipment to have when you are on an electric scooter?

 

Since this summer, the government has made it compulsory to wear certain equipment when traveling on electric scooters.

 

They have been swarming on the sidewalks and cycle paths for several months. The electric scooters, they are used occasionally or daily, now part of the urban landscape.

 

Since October 25, 2019, the government has published a series of road safety measures to better regulate their use.

 

While summer is in full swing and electric scooters can be a good alternative to get around without wasting too much time, the Ministry of the Interior recalls the rules of use.

 

Helmet and reflective vest

Before even starting the electric scooter, it is better to make sure that the clothes you are wearing are adequate. Covering clothing is recommended. It is also necessary to equip yourself with a protective helmet, similar to those worn on bicycles, day or night. Once night has fallen, or when visibility is reduced, it is essential to wear reflective clothing with reflective tape(vest, bib, etc.).

 

A scooter that meets standards

To be able to circulate in complete safety, you must make sure that the scooter is up to standards. It must therefore be fitted with an audible warning device, a braking system, front and rear position lights, and rear and side reflectors.

 

No headphones, headphones or AirPods

Riding an electric scooter requires attention. To be fully focused on the road, it is forbidden to wear an audio system. Whether it's wireless headphones, earphones, or even AirPods.

 

Be over 12 years old

To drive an electric scooter, you must be over 12 years old.

 

The speed ​​limit at 25 km / h

If you are riding an electric scooter, you should not exceed 25 km/h. This limitation applies as soon as you are on such a machine, whether you are in town or the countryside.

 

One passenger at a time

Even if it is tempting to ride two or more on an electric scooter, it is strictly prohibited. Only one person at a time is allowed to be on the scooter when it is running.

 

Sidewalks to pedestrians

For the time being, no motorized vehicle or electric scooter is allowed to circulate on the sidewalks. Their parking on the sidewalk is also prohibited. These are entirely reserved for pedestrian traffic.