Greece proposes stricter e-scooter rules, bans riders under 17
The government has unveiled draft legislation that would ban people under the age of 17 from using e-scooters, introduce mandatory insurance and impose tougher penalties for traffic violations, following a series of serious accidents involving children.
Deputy Transport Minister Giorgos Kotsiras said the proposed measures are intended to strengthen road safety and reduce the number of accidents involving the increasingly popular vehicles.
"Our intention is clear," he said. "To boost road safety, reduce the number of accidents and protect human life, showing particular concern for children."
Tougher penalties and mandatory insurance
Under the proposed law, anyone under 17 would be prohibited from riding an e-scooter on public roads, except for people with disabilities. Violators would face a €150 fine.
The legislation would also increase the fine for riding an e-scooter on roads with speed limits above 50 km/h from €30 to €350.
In addition, riders would be required to carry identification and proof of insurance. Those using uninsured e-scooters would face a €250 fine.
Restrictions on sales and rentals
The draft law would prohibit the sale, rental or provision of e-scooters to people under 17, requiring retailers and rental companies to verify users' ages. Businesses that fail to comply would face fines of €1,000.
Current regulations requiring e-scooter users to wear helmets and prohibiting them from carrying passengers would remain in force.
The proposed legislation is expected to be debated in parliament in the coming weeks.
