E-scooter in Helsinki. Photo: Antti Aimo-Koivisto / Lehtikuva
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The Finnish Parliament’s Transport and Communications Committee has endorsed a national age limit for electric scooter use, proposing a ban for anyone under the age of 15.
The new restriction is part of a broader micromobility report approved on Friday. It follows several recent accidents involving minors, some of which resulted in serious injuries or fatalities.
The legislation would apply to both rented and privately owned e-scooters. Electric bicycles are excluded from the age restriction.
Until now, the government’s proposal had left age limits to local authorities, but the Constitutional Affairs Committee advised that such regulations should be unified across the country.
The Finnish Road Safety Council recommended a national age limit last year. The new rule brings Finland in line with several other European countries that have moved to tighten e-scooter regulations in response to growing safety concerns.
The draft law would also prohibit the use of e-scooters while intoxicated. A 0.05 percent blood alcohol content limit, equivalent to the standard for motorists, would be introduced for those operating light electric vehicles, including e-scooters and e-bikes.
Helmet use is not being made mandatory, but the legislation includes a formal recommendation to wear one. The government hopes this will improve rider safety and reduce the number of head injuries.
In addition, companies offering e-scooters or other micromobility rentals would be required to apply for special operating permits in each municipality. The government aims to address issues such as haphazard scooter parking and congestion on pavements, which have drawn complaints in major urban areas.
The Transport Committee’s proposal will now be reviewed by the full Parliament in a plenary session.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
