From July 1, 2022, users of electric scooters in Belgium must be at least 16 years old. They are now prohibited from carrying passengers, driving on sidewalks and parking anywhere. These changes result from the law of May 15, 2022, which clarified the legal uncertainty surrounding the use of electric scooters in Belgium.
Electric scooter drivers in Belgium are considered cyclists, and therefore, they must follow the same rules of the highway code as bicycle drivers. The law defines motorized transport vehicles as any motor vehicle with one wheel or more, the maximum speed of which is limited to 25 km/h.
The minimum age for electric scooter riders is 16, with exceptions in certain areas. It is now prohibited to transport passengers, unless the vehicle has been designed for this purpose. Unmounted scooters are not considered vehicles and must be pushed onto the sidewalk.
Traffic rules in Belgium require drivers to travel on the roadway or cycle path when passable, and the sidewalk is strictly prohibited. Scooter parking is now regulated to avoid the previous anarchy, with specific areas dedicated to shared scooters.
Electric scooters must be equipped with a white reflector at the front, a red reflector at the rear, reflective side signaling, an audible warning device audible at 20 meters, effective brakes, and they do not must not exceed one meter in width. Drivers should use front and rear lights at night.
Wearing a helmet is strongly recommended due to the number of accidents. In the event of an accident, the driver must present identification and is not required to have liability insurance, although it is strongly recommended. Electric scooter drivers are considered weak users and are protected by law in the event of an accident, except in cases of intentional misconduct.
