European traffic safety focus as alcohol‑linked e‑scooter deaths rise and interlock devices are considered

A Swedish study by Chalmers University of Technology and the Swedish Transport Administration analysed 204 traffic fatalities involving e‑scooters, e‑bikes and bicycles from 2016‑2024. Of the 18 e‑scooter deaths, alcohol was a factor in 44 % – with a median blood‑alcohol level of 1.8 ‰ – and none of the riders wore helmets. Victims were typically men around 47.5 years old, and most incidents occurred on weekend evenings on private e‑scooters.

In Norway, the road‑safety organization MA – Rusfri Trafikk is urging the government to allow alcohol‑interlock devices as an alternative to revoking drivers’ licences for repeat DUI offenders. Citing the new EU driver‑licence directive and experience from Sweden, the proposal aims to reduce drunk‑driving by requiring an interlock that blocks vehicle start‑up if alcohol is detected in the driver’s breath. The measure is slated for discussion in the national road‑safety plan for 2026‑2029.