Finland Bans E-Scooters for Under-15s, Imposes Rental Licenses

A significant rise in e-scooter accidents has prompted governments and authorities in various regions to implement stricter regulations to improve safety. In Queensland, Australia, hospitals are treating severe injuries from e-scooter crashes at rates comparable to high-speed car accidents, leading to calls for potential bans and seizures of modified devices. Ontario's Provincial Police emphasized the importance of understanding and following laws related to e-bikes, e-scooters, and similar vehicles, outlining safety requirements such as helmet use and operational restrictions. Finland has introduced comprehensive legislation banning electric scooter use by children under 15 and requiring rental companies to obtain municipal licenses; the law also sets speed limits, enforces blood alcohol standards, and bans riding under drug influence. This legislative action reflects a broader European trend, with countries like Italy mandating helmets and insurance, and cities such as Paris and Madrid banning rentals entirely, all in response to thousands of serious injuries and several fatalities linked to e-scooter usage. The impact of these regulations on major e-scooter companies operating in Europe remains unclear as authorities seek to control the growing safety risks associated with micromobility devices.