Surge in Electric Scooter Accidents in Belgium Signals Urgent Need for New Safety Measures
Electric scooter accidents in Belgium have escalated dramatically in the first quarter of 2025, with reported incidents causing deaths or injuries surging by 62% compared to the same period last year, according to data from the Vias road safety institute, reports 24brussels.
From January to March, police documented 470 accidents involving electric scooters—approximately five per day—up from 291 in early 2024. The rise was observed across all three regions of Belgium, with Wallonia experiencing the most significant increase at 95%.
In Flanders, the number of fatalities rose sharply from 36 to 47, while Wallonia saw a slight reduction from 32 to 30. It is important to note that these figures do not account for deaths occurring later in hospitals, and many accidents go unreported if police are not involved.
Germany faces similar issues. A recent study indicated that electric scooter accidents frequently occur during weekends and at night, often involving intoxicated male riders, suggesting a pattern that could inform future safety initiatives.
In response to the rising accident rates, Vias has called for a ban on scooters exceeding the 25 km/h speed limit and for police to be equipped with devices to measure scooter speeds, similar to provisions in the Netherlands. The institute also advocates for mandatory use of helmets and fluorescent vests, noting that 60% of serious injuries involve head trauma.
Despite existing regulations that prohibit electric scooters from pavements and restrict usage to riders over the age of 16, these measures have not curtailed the surge in accidents. Earlier this year, the tragic case of an 11-year-old boy involved in a deadly police chase highlighted the urgent need for enhanced safety reforms.
