Türkiye’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure is set to implement significant changes to regulations governing the use of shared electric scooters (e-scooters), with a strong focus on mandatory speed limits and enhanced safety measures. These new rules aim to address the growing concerns surrounding e-scooter safety and ensure a more secure environment for both riders and pedestrians.
Addressing E-Scooter Safety Concerns
The increasing popularity of e-scooters as a convenient mode of transportation has also brought about a rise in accidents and safety issues. In response, the Turkish government is taking proactive steps to regulate their use and minimize potential risks. The planned amendments to the existing regulations, initially introduced in 2021, are intended to address the following:
- Automatic Speed Reduction: One of the key changes will be the mandatory implementation of automatic speed reduction for e-scooters. This technology will automatically limit the speed of the scooters in designated prohibited areas, ensuring safer operation.
- Restricted Areas: E-scooters will be restricted from entering high-speed zones and other prohibited areas. Operators will be responsible for identifying when a scooter enters such a zone and will be required to automatically reduce the vehicle’s speed.
- Operator Accountability: E-scooter operators will face administrative fines of ₺6,923 (approximately $194 USD) for failing to enforce speed regulations. This measure aims to ensure that operators take responsibility for the safety of their users.
- Accident Reporting: Operators will be required to record all accidents or incidents involving e-scooters. These records, along with any complaints, must be submitted monthly to a central ministry database.
- Minimum Battery Charge: E-scooters in service will need to maintain a minimum battery charge level of 20% to ensure they do not stop unexpectedly, causing potential hazards.
- Parking and Charging: Municipal decisions on e-scooter permits must include details about parking and charging stations. This aims to address the issue of haphazardly parked scooters that can obstruct pedestrian and traffic flow.
- Local Production: To maintain certain standards, at least 30% of the e-scooters in service must be locally produced. This measure seeks to promote the domestic e-scooter industry.
Current E-Scooter Regulations in Türkiye
Prior to these new amendments, existing regulations already outlined several rules for e-scooter usage in Türkiye. These include:
- Age Limits: Users must be at least 15 years old to operate an e-scooter. Those between 16 and 18 years old are required to have a motorcycle license. Children under 15 are prohibited from using e-scooter services.
- Speed Limits: The maximum speed for e-scooters is generally around 25 km/h. However, in some areas, such as Istanbul, the speed limit has been reduced to 20 km/h. Furthermore, in certain districts of Istanbul, speed limits have been reduced to 12.5 km/h.
- Permitted Areas: E-scooters are allowed on public roads and bike paths. They are prohibited on pedestrian sidewalks, intercity roads, and highways with a maximum speed limit above 50 km/h.
- Usage Restrictions: Only one person is allowed on an e-scooter at a time, and carrying passengers or large items is not allowed. E-scooters are also not allowed on public transport.
- Safety Rules: E-scooters are to be used in a manner that does not endanger the lives of vulnerable groups such as the disabled and the elderly. They should not be parked in such a way that obstructs traffic or limits the property rights of others.
Safety Concerns and Accident Data
Despite existing regulations, safety concerns remain a critical issue. Data from various studies and media reports highlight some key points:
- Accident Rates: E-scooter accidents are frequently reported, and these incidents often result in injuries to the head, face, and extremities.
- Collision Types: Many accidents involve collisions with pedestrians and vehicles, emphasizing the need for increased adherence to traffic rules and safer riding practices.
- Helmet Usage: The rate of helmet usage among e-scooter riders in Türkiye is notably low, which increases the risk of serious injuries in accidents.
- Vulnerable Groups: Accidents often involve vulnerable groups, including pedestrians, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities, further highlighting the importance of stricter safety measures.
- Fatalities: Tragically, there have been fatal accidents involving e-scooters in Türkiye, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced safety regulations and public awareness campaigns.
Implementing the New Regulations
The Turkish government’s move to implement mandatory speed limits and enhanced safety measures is a crucial step towards addressing the concerns associated with e-scooter use. These changes are expected to make e-scooters a safer mode of transportation while still providing a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative for short-distance travel. The new regulations aim to balance the benefits of e-scooter use with the need to protect public safety and reduce the number of accidents and injuries.
The new regulations also highlight the necessity for all stakeholders to work together to achieve these goals. Operators are responsible for enforcing these rules, while users are expected to respect and follow them for their own safety. Furthermore, there is a need for increased public awareness campaigns to educate people about the safe use of e-scooters and the importance of complying with regulations.
Conclusion
The upcoming amendments to e-scooter regulations in Türkiye represent a significant move towards ensuring safer micromobility. By introducing mandatory speed limits, restricting access to prohibited areas, and imposing fines for non-compliance, the government is taking a proactive stance on traffic safety. Additionally, the new rules requiring operators to record accidents and maintain a minimum battery charge further emphasize the focus on safety and responsibility.
These changes, coupled with the existing regulations, are expected to create a more secure environment for both e-scooter users and other members of the public. While e-scooters offer a practical and eco-friendly transportation option, it’s essential that their use is managed in a way that minimizes risk and promotes responsible behavior. The new measures will help to ensure that e-scooters can continue to be a useful mode of transport in Türkiye while prioritizing the safety of everyone on the road.
