Compulsory helmet use for e-scooters in Italy – chaos or sensible measure?
Introduction
E-scooters have become an indispensable part of modern cities. They are considered environmentally friendly, practical and ideal for short journeys – especially in tourist hotspots such as Rome, Florence or Milan. But in Italy, a new helmet requirement for e-scooters for a lot of trouble and chaos. While the government of Giorgia Meloni wants to improve road safety, drivers and rental companies are facing major challenges. Why exactly is the new regulation causing so much confusion? And is it even the solution?
Overview: What's new?
The following has recently been in effect in Italy:
- helmet requirement for all e-scooter riders (previously only for minors).
- fines of 50 euros for riding without a helmet.
- Introduction of a license plate for the scooters.
The measure is part of a broader government plan to reduce accidents and to ensure more order on the streets. But the implementation has met with massive criticism.
regulations at a glance
| control | details | fine/requirements |
|---|---|---|
| helmet requirement | Mandatory for all drivers | 50 € fine |
| license plate | Labeling requirement for e-scooters | Effective immediately |
| Make a phone call | prohibition while driving | fine from 250 € |
| minimum age | No change so far (14 years) | – |
Why does the helmet requirement cause chaos?
1. Uninformed drivers – especially tourists
Many drivers, especially from abroad, were surprised by the regulation.
- "How should I know?" asked a US tourist.
- Tourists may expect strict rules in Germany, but hardly in Italy.
2. Practical problems for lenders
E-scooter rental companies like Lime and Dott are faced with a dilemma:
- "Where should we put helmets?" asks Dott manager Andrea Giaretta.
- Providing or attaching helmets is hardly possible from an organizational perspective.
3. Discussions with the police
The first checks caused discussions between drivers and authorities. Many officials pressed "one more eye closed" , which further increases the confusion.
The intention: More safety in road traffic
Italy records more than 3000 road deaths . The government under Transport Minister Matteo Salvini sees e-scooters as a "Jungle on the streets" that needs to be regulated.
The numbers show that e-scooters can be dangerous:
- In 2022, 21 people died in Italy died in e-scooter accidents.
- In Germany, there were almost 10,000 accidents with 22 fatalities.
What do critics say? – A look at other countries
- Paris & Madrid : Here rental scooters were even banned because they blocked sidewalks and endangered pedestrians.
- Great Britain & Netherlands : Electric scooters are generally not allowed .
- Germany : Here applies no helmet requirement for e-scooters (max. 20 km/h). The Federal Ministry of Transport rejects a change: "We don't want any regulations."
Critics of the Italian helmet requirement therefore ask themselves:
- Does the measure really contribute to Security at?
- Or does it simply discourage people from using environmentally friendly means of transport?
Practical tips for e-scooter riders in Italy
If you want to use an e-scooter in Italy, here are some helpful tips:
- Bring a helmet : It is especially worthwhile for tourists to have a helmet with them.
- Know the rules : Fines can quickly become expensive – find out about current regulations beforehand.
- Contact your rental company : Check whether your provider offers alternative solutions (e.g. helmet rental).
Conclusion: Between Security and Chaos
The new helmet requirement for e-scooters in Italy is well-intentioned, but its implementation is causing discontent. While the government is aiming for more order and safety, rental companies are struggling with logistical challenges and tourists are struggling with a lack of information.
It remains to be seen whether the measure will make sense in the long term or will only increase the chaos. The fact is: e-scooters will continue to be an important part of urban mobility - and safety should always be the top priority.
What do you think about the helmet requirement for e-scooters? Practical or exaggerated? Share your opinion with us and always stay safe on the road! ????