Germany Drafts Car‑Like Liability Rules for E‑Scooters

Overview

• The draft presumes rider fault after accidents unless the rider proves they were not responsible.
• Holders, including sharing companies, would face strict no‑fault liability, such as for injuries linked to wrongly parked scooters.
• The reform would remove the slow‑vehicle exemption so e‑scooters are treated under liability standards comparable to cars.
• Policymakers cite rising incidents, with more than 12,000 people involved in 2024 and third‑party claims up from about 1,150 in 2020 to 5,000 in 2024.
• Earlier expert recommendations called existing rules inadequate, and operators, insurers and municipalities are expected to challenge costs and implementation during the legislative debate.