Faced with the increase in accidents involving electric scooters, the town hall of Onet-le-Château has decided to take firm measures, with a new municipal decree regulating their use on municipal territory from January 13.
The decree imposes several essential rules. First of all, only users aged 14 and over will be allowed to ride electric scooters. In addition, they must be covered by civil liability insurance, guaranteeing coverage in the event of an accident.
Equipment security is also enhanced. The scooters must be equipped with a sound horn, reflective devices (sides and rear), positioning lights (front and rear), as well as an effective braking system. These requirements aim to improve prevention and visibility. Finally, to increase user safety, wearing an approved helmet and a reflective bib is made mandatory. This equipment, often neglected, nevertheless plays a key role in preventing injuries in the event of a fall or collision.
Restrictions on traffic
In terms of traffic, the speed is now limited to 25 km/h in built-up areas, in accordance with national standards. Scooters will have to use cycle paths when they are uninterrupted, thus limiting their presence on paths shared with cars and pedestrians. Furthermore, certain prohibitions are reminded: driving in the wrong direction is prohibited, including in 30 km/h zones, but also on sidewalks and it is strictly forbidden to transport several people on the same scooter. Failure to comply with one of the conditions of the municipal decree is punishable by a fine of €150, to which fines related to Highway Code offenses may be added.
An imminent entry into force
These measures will come into force on January 13, 2025. Municipal authorities call on Castonétois to scrupulously respect these rules in order to reduce the risk of accidents and promote peaceful cohabitation between different road users.
With this decree, the City is part of a proactive approach to guarantee the safety of all, while allowing supervised and responsible use of electric scooters.
