Global micromobility safety and regulation trends

Local authorities and advocacy groups are increasingly addressing safety concerns and enforcement challenges related to electric micromobility devices, such as e-scooters and e-bikes.

In the United States, Palm Beach County has moved toward regulating motorized micromobility by proposing an ordinance that requires operators to be at least 14 years old with a government-issued photo ID. The proposal includes speed limits of 15 mph on sidewalks and 10 mph when pedestrians are nearby, while also prohibiting specific maneuvers. In San Francisco, a survey by Walk San Francisco reported that 70% of participants had experienced a close call with a device, and 8% had been hit by one.

In Poland, officials in Wrocław are managing issues such as devices blocking building entrances and riders endangering pedestrians. Local authorities face technical difficulties in distinguishing between legal pedal-assist bicycles and non-compliant electric vehicles during field inspections. While the city is currently removing sidewalk obstacles and pressuring rental operators, officials are seeking legislative changes to improve equipment inspection and rule enforcement.