Safety advocates and consumer protection groups are increasingly calling for a more rigorous approach to managing e-scooter traffic. The German Road Safety Council (DVR) has proposed the introduction of a mandatory proficiency certificate for riders who do not already hold a driver's license. This measure aims to ensure that all users understand basic traffic rules and possess the necessary physical skills to operate a motorized vehicle safely. By treating e-scooter training similarly to moped certification, officials hope to reduce the high number of accidents involving inexperienced or young riders.
Beyond rider education, there is a growing push to hold rental companies more accountable for the risks associated with their fleets. New legislative proposals aim to make operators directly liable for damages, closing legal gaps that have previously left victims without compensation. Proponents argue that companies profiting from shared mobility services must bear the responsibility for the hazards their vehicles create, especially when scooters are left in dangerous positions that block sidewalks or create obstacles for pedestrians.
These measures are seen as essential steps toward making e-scooters a sustainable part of the urban transport mix. Supporters emphasize that the goal is not to ban these vehicles, but to integrate them into the traffic system with clear rules and accountability. By combining better rider education with strict corporate liability, authorities believe they can curb the rising accident numbers and protect vulnerable road users more effectively.