The State Duma is actively considering multiple pathways to address the heightened liability concerns tied to riding electric scooters. This stance was communicated by Vyacheslav Volodin, the Speaker of the lower house, in an official address shared on the channel of the parliamentary chamber.
Volodin stated that work will continue on various solutions to the liability questions associated with electric scooter use. He noted that the approaches could differ, underscoring a willingness to explore practical, real-world options.
According to the speaker, it is essential for everyone to clearly understand their responsibilities, especially those who operate or ride electric scooters in daily life.
Volodin highlighted accident statistics involving electric scooters, drawing attention to a sharp uptick in incidents over recent years.
He remarked that the number of such accidents has surged more than fortyfold since 2019. The most recent report cited a collision between an electric scooter and a five-year-old child in Moscow, after which the rider fled the scene, prompting further concern.
Earlier, the State Duma had repeatedly pushed for a speed cap on electric scooters, proposing a limit of 10 km/h as a safety measure.
It is also noted that Paris took a pioneering step in Europe by banning electric scooter rentals, signaling a broader conversation about how cities regulate micro-mobility to protect pedestrians and riders alike.
Such discussions reflect a growing global emphasis on clearer accountability, safer design standards, and practical rules that balance personal mobility with public safety. When people choose to ride or share e-scooters, they often discover that responsible behavior and adherence to local regulations play a crucial role in preventing accidents and ensuring a smoother coexistence with other road users. Regulators in North America and around the world are watching these developments closely to assess which measures best reduce risk while maintaining convenient transportation options for commuters, students, and visitors.
Public safety campaigns frequently emphasize the importance of helmets, visible lighting, and awareness of pedestrians in crowded urban environments. As cities experiment with different control measures, the overarching goal remains clear: create safer streets without stifling innovation or accessibility. The ongoing dialogue at the legislative level suggests that a balanced framework is possible, one that minimizes liability issues while encouraging responsible use and accountability among all participants in the micro-mobility ecosystem. Attribution: State Duma press channel, official statements