German police tighten rules after child hit by illegal E‑scooter

On 7 July 2026, a 31‑year‑old driver in Lippe, Germany, reversed a Fiat 500 from a parking space onto the sidewalk and struck a 10‑year‑old girl riding an unregistered E‑scooter. The child sustained minor injuries and the scooter, which lacked a licence plate, insurance and required safety equipment, was illegal for public roads. Police charged the girl's parent for allowing the under‑14 child to use the scooter in violation of German traffic law, which mandates a minimum age of 14, a valid general operating permit (ABE), insurance, two brakes, lighting and a horn.

Consumer‑protection authorities warn that many inexpensive E‑scooters sold online do not meet these requirements. Buyers should check for an ABE label, a German‑issued licence plate, a speed limit of 20 km/h, and compliance with safety‑recall portals. Failure to meet the legal standards can lead to fines of €70, confiscation of the vehicle, or criminal penalties, including possible prison sentences and points on the driver’s licence.

The incidents highlight Germany’s strict enforcement of E‑scooter regulations to ensure road safety, especially for minors.