(de-news.net) – The German Federal Government has approved a new regulatory framework regarding the operation of e-scooters in an effort to improve road safety. A related ordinance that was recently submitted to the Cabinet by the Federal Ministry of Transport has now been formally approved. The main goal of the proposed regulations is to allay growing worries about the responsible and safe usage of e-scooters in public spaces.

Beginning in 2027, all newly produced e-scooters will need to have turn indicators installed in accordance with the updated regulations. It is obvious that the goal of this technical requirement is to increase communication and visibility between e-scooter riders and other road users, which will lower the likelihood of collisions at junctions and when changing lanes.

The ordinance adds more stringent behavioral rules in addition to technical improvements. In particular, e-scooter riders will be subject to sidewalk usage regulations that are linked with those that currently apply to cyclists. The goal of this harmonization is to safeguard pedestrians from risky riding behaviors and to guarantee uniform standards across all forms of transportation. Riding on sidewalks in violation of the new regulations will now cost 25 euros. When multiple people ride on a single e-scooter, which is a dangerous practice that is now common in cities, the same fee will apply.

Additionally, more authority will be given to local governments and municipalities to control where and how e-scooters are parked within their jurisdictions. The government intends to promote more accessible and orderly urban areas by allowing cities and municipalities to draft customized regulations.

The ordinance will next be presented to the Bundesrat, Germany’s Federal Council, for deliberation.