Polish electric‑scooter crashes injure cyclists and passengers, prompting safety warnings

In Gniezno, a 14‑year‑old riding an unlocked electric scooter at an estimated 50 km/h collided with a 30‑year‑old cyclist on a promenade. The cyclist suffered a broken hand and other injuries, while the teenager escaped serious harm. Emergency services took about 25 minutes to reach the scene, drawing criticism of the response time. Under Polish law the unlocked scooter is treated as a motor‑vehicle; the teen faces a traffic‑offence charge and his parents may be held financially liable.

In Pabianice, a 19‑year‑old was riding an electric scooter while carrying his 22‑year‑old sister as a passenger. The loss of control caused a fall that injured the sister, who was taken to hospital. Police noted multiple violations, including transporting a passenger on a scooter, riding in a prohibited area and operating an unregistered vehicle. Authorities reminded that scooters are designed for a single rider and that safety gear, such as helmets, can reduce injury severity.

Both incidents highlight growing concerns over illegal use of electric scooters in Poland and the enforcement of traffic regulations to protect cyclists, pedestrians and riders.