E-Scooters Require Mandatory Insurance in Germany
Since 2019, e-scooters have become a common sight for short-distance travel in Germany. They are legally classified as 'electric small vehicles' requiring mandatory liability insurance.
E-scooters have become a fixture in daily mobility for navigating short distances in Germany since their road legalization in 2019. Legally, they are classified as 'electric small vehicles' that require insurance, specifically a mandatory motor vehicle liability insurance.
This insurance is only available for e-scooters with a valid operating permit, typically models featuring two independent brakes, handlebars, and lighting with reflectors and a bell. They can reach speeds between 6 and 20 km/h and possess a type plate with an identification number. An insurance sticker, whose color changes annually, must be visibly attached, usually to the rear fender.
The mandatory liability insurance covers damages to third parties, including personal injury, property damage, and financial loss. Operating an e-scooter without valid insurance is a serious offense that can result in fines or even imprisonment. In case of an accident with an uninsured vehicle, the rider is personally liable for all damages, which can lead to significant financial burdens, particularly in cases of personal injury.
Optional comprehensive insurance is also available to cover damages to the e-scooter itself, such as theft, fire, or natural disasters. Riders must adhere to traffic regulations, using bike paths or, in their absence, the road. Sidewalks and pedestrian zones are prohibited. Only one person may ride at a time, and when riding in groups, riders must go single file. While a helmet is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended, along with cautious riding and adherence to alcohol limits.