E-scooter without insurance: drug control in Schmalkalden ends with displays

E-scooter without insurance: drug control in Schmalkalden ends with displays

25.08.2024 - 10:27

State Police Inspection Suhl

In the city of Schmalkalden, a man of Meiningen's police officers was stopped at around 3 p.m. on August 24, 2024. The reason for the control was the absence of an insurance license plate on his e-scooter. During the investigation, it turned out that the vehicle was not insured. This leads us to an important aspect of the topic: the legal framework for e-scooters and the necessary insurance.

e-scooters are becoming increasingly popular, but many users may not be aware that certain legal requirements apply to use on public roads. An e-scooter must be equipped with liability insurance, and the driver is obliged to display a corresponding insurance license plate. Without this protection, the driver not only exposes legal consequences, but also endangers the safety in road traffic.

looking for the truth

The man was also subjected to a voluntary drug test as part of the control. The results showed a positive test on cannabis. Such findings are not only worrying because they can affect traffic safety, but they also result in legal consequences. In this case, the man in the clinic had to endure a blood sample to officially confirm drug use.

The police have already taken measures to document the incident. He is now facing several ads that result from the violations found. It remains to be seen what the legal consequences for the driver will look like and what punishments could threaten him. Every violation of the traffic rules, especially under the influence of drugs, can have serious consequences.

Important information on e-scooter use

It is crucial that users of e-scooters find out about the applicable regulations. Here are some basic points that every driver should consider:

  • An e-scooter must have liability insurance.
  • The vehicle must be equipped with a valid insurance license plate.
  • driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is strictly prohibited.
  • driving on sidewalks is not allowed; E-scooters may only be used on designated roads or roads.

The landscape idyll of Schmalkalden, which is often used by numerous bike and e-scooter drivers, is impaired by such incidents. The police take measures to ensure that the traffic rules are observed. This not only increases security for all road users, but also promotes responsible behavior in dealing with e-scooters.

It is essential that drivers are aware of the responsibility they have when using these means of transportation. Cyclists and drivers must be able to rely on safe road traffic. The failure to comply with the legal requirements not only brings legal consequences, but can also result in avoidable accidents.

Original content from: State Police Inspection Suhl, transmitted by News Aktuell

legal situation on e-scooters in Germany

The legal framework for the operation of e-scooters in Germany has been clearly regulated since the introduction of the electrical engine regulation (EKFV) in 2019. E-scooters may only be used in public road traffic if they have a valid insurance license plate and can demonstrate liability insurance protection. Otherwise, users can expect fines and other legal consequences. In the event of violations of these regulations, as in the case of the man in Schmalkalden, not only fines, but also criminal proceedings, especially if there are also alcohol or drugs.

There are also regulations regarding speed limits that are limited to a maximum of 20 km/h, as well as requirements for use on bike paths and roads. It is particularly interesting that driving is prohibited for e-scooters on sidewalks to ensure the safety of pedestrians. These regulations are to be monitored strictly by the authorities to increase traffic safety.

duty of care for road users

The responsibility of road users to observe the legally defined requirements is fundamental, especially with regard to safety in road traffic. It should be noted that, despite the small size and the often incorrectly estimated risk, e-scooter drivers are responsible for a serious injury or even fatal accidents if they violate the traffic regulations. This obligation also extends to the consumption of drugs or alcohol: a ride under such influences not only endangers the driver, but also other road users.

According to the statistics of the German Road Safety Council (DVR), the number of traffic accidents with e-scooters has increased in recent years, which has been due to increasing use of the vehicles. The affected accidents contribute to the need to carry out strict controls and information about traffic rules for e-scooter drivers.

Current traffic and trends

In order to illuminate the security situation in road traffic, current figures consider: in 2023 around 4,000 accidents with e-scooters were reported in Germany, a number that shows continuous growth. Experts warn of the trend that younger drivers in particular, who often have less experience in road traffic, are involved in accidents. The police officers show that drugs or alcohol played a role in almost 30% of cases.

In addition, the use of e-scooters has increased exponentially since 2019. The market for these vehicles is estimated at several billion euros and therefore attracts both leisure users and commercial providers. These developments require appropriate management and increased awareness of users for the applicable laws and their own duties in road traffic.

German traffic safety council