Security checks in Gütersloh: Strict measures for e-scooter drivers!

Security checks in Gütersloh: Strict measures for e-scooter drivers!

In Gütersloh, greater attention is currently being paid to road safety, especially when it comes to the use of e-scooters. On Tuesday, September 16th, the police carried out extensive checks in the city area. From 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., a total of 78 road users were checked - a clear expression of efforts to ensure greater safety on the roads. The checks took place on Friedrich-Ebert-Straße and Hülsbrockstraße/Nordhorner Straße. And there was a need for action: a total of 32 violations were identified, 7 of which were part of regulatory procedures and 25 warning fines were imposed. A good hand Read more. This was also reflected in the speed checks, where an additional 13 violations were punished.

The Gütersloh police initiated the checks in response to citizen input. This measure is part of the ongoing presence concept “Security in the municipalities”. The aim is to ensure greater safety for all road users with these preventative and repressive measures. The high number of violations makes it clear that there is an urgent need for action, which the North Rhine-Westphalia police also urgently warn.

The rules for riding an e-scooter

E-scooters have now become an integral part of the street scene. However, this should not obscure the fact that there are many rules that apply when driving. This form of mobility is a motor vehicle that requires insurance and is definitely not a toy! As the Gütersloh police emphasize, e-scooter drivers must definitely familiarize themselves with the applicable regulations.

The minimum age for e-scooter drivers is 14 years; a special driving license is not necessary. The maximum speed is 20 km/h. Technical changes that increase speed can have serious legal consequences. Alcohol tolerances correspond to the regulations for car drivers: Anyone caught with a blood alcohol level between 0.5 and 1.09 will face a fine of 500 euros, a one-month driving ban and two points in Flensburg. Anyone who has a blood alcohol content of over 1.1 can expect to have their driving license revoked.

Driving and parking e-scooters responsibly

E-scooters must travel on cycle paths, but if there are none, they must travel on the road. Sidewalks are taboo! E-scooters are not allowed to ride next to each other and hand signals are mandatory when turning. Another important rule: E-scooters should always be parked in such a way that others are not hindered. The police also recommend that you avoid using your cell phone while driving – safety comes first!

According to a planned new regulation, which is expected to come into force in 2025, e-scooters should be given more freedom in the future. When using cycle paths, the traffic light regulations for cycle traffic are described. This is just one step to increase overall road safety without disregarding the rights of pedestrians. A clear step in the right direction. This also corresponds to the plans of the ADAC, which would like to regulate the use of e-scooters more clearly.

As long as the new regulations do not come into force, it is up to each individual to handle this new type of mobility responsibly. For further information on the regulations and the currently applicable measures, detailed insights are available at polizei.nrw, while the ADAC offers useful information on correct use here.

The Gütersloh police will continue these checks in the near future. It will be interesting to see whether the situation improves and all road users can stay safe on the road.