Malta proposes regulations on e-scooters

Would you approve the requirement of a driving license for e-scooters?

A new proposed law sparks debate in Malta. The Government is putting forward a law aiming to regulate the use of micro-vehicles, in particular to impose requirements to the drivers. The project, which is subject to public consultation, concerns also skateboards and e-scooters and suggests that drivers should possess a valid license and an insurance.

It has been announced at a press conference on Monday that the Maltese government was considering the introduction of regulation for vehicles that could reach speeds of up to 40 kilometres per hour. According to Transport Minister Ian Borg the proposed document has security as its general objective. The document further suggests a registration fee of 11.65 euros plus an annual license of 25 euros to be paid for each scooter. In addition, limitations for the speed and the places where scooters will be accepted are previewed. It also envisages the introduction of proper lights as drivers’ garment mandatory attributes

Although there has been a rapid increase in the number of electric scooters in the island country, they are as of yet not subject of any regulations, reports Malta Today.

The e-scooters are a particularly convenient mobility solution for all those who want faster and autonomous mobility. As they allow their users to pay by distance travelled or per minute and can be rented from different places around the city and tracked via mobile app, shared scooters are a very good solution for dynamic persons, especially for those who visit the city for a short stay. Furthermore, shared vehicles, e-scooters included, are proven to contribute to mitigating traffic as they need only tiny spaces to move around and park, but still remain a relatively reliable alternative to the personal car. However, there are obvious safety concerns to take into consideration relative to their use and to their incorrect disposal.