Electric Scooters and Traffic Rules: Where You Can Ride, Speed Limits, and Fines up to 34 Thousand UAH

Electric scooters are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transport in Ukrainian cities. At the same time, many drivers and pedestrians still do not fully understand where exactly it is allowed to ride electric scooters, what rules apply to their users, and what liability is provided for violations. We explain what you need to know about using electric scooters in Ukraine.

It is allowed to move on such transport in places where it does not create danger for pedestrians and other road users.

It is recommended to operate an electric scooter from the age of 14.

In particular, it is recommended to use bicycle lanes for electric scooter movement. If they are absent, it is allowed to move along the roadside or the extreme right edge of the road. Electric scooters can also be used in parks and special recreation areas if this is not prohibited by local rules.

On sidewalks, electric scooter users must give way to pedestrians and not create danger for them. Riding on the roadway should only be done when there are no bike lanes or roadside, and provided that traffic safety rules are observed.

Speed Limits

Within populated areas, electric scooter users should maintain a safe speed and consider the traffic situation. Most rental services limit the speed of electric scooters to 20–25 km/h. Drivers should not carry passengers and it is prohibited to operate the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. For safe movement, it is advisable to equip the electric scooter with reflectors and a sound signal.

Violation of traffic rules may result in administrative or criminal liability depending on the consequences of the violation. In particular, fines may be imposed for traffic violations. Separate penalties are provided for driving under the influence. If, as a result of the violation, a person suffers moderate or severe bodily injuries, the offender may face not only a significant fine but also restriction or deprivation of liberty.

Main fines:

— for certain traffic violations, fines may start from 340 UAH;

— for driving under the influence, fines may range from 17,000 to 34,000 UAH depending on the circumstances;

— in case of injury to a person, criminal liability is possible

Previously, the "Judicial and Legal Newspaper" wrote about what courts say regarding fines for riding an electric scooter without a helmet.

We also noted that despite holding electric scooter drivers accountable for traffic violations, rental services continue to profit without adequate responsibility for possible risks.

In Ukraine, a petition has been registered calling for amendments to the Traffic Rules regarding the use of electric scooters, electric bicycles, and unicycles. The initiative is explained by the increase in accidents involving drivers of such transport and the need to strengthen control and responsibility.

It is also proposed to prohibit the use of electric scooters by children under 14 years old.

As the "Judicial and Legal Newspaper" emphasized, the rapid spread of electric scooters, hoverboards, and unicycles in Ukrainian cities has created a serious challenge for urban infrastructure, which is struggling to adapt to new types of transport.

We also reported that the Verkhovna Rada is preparing to adopt a bill on liability for electric scooter and unicycle users, which has been pending in parliament for more than 5 years.

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