The Ukrainian Parliament has introduced a bill aimed at regulating the use of electric scooters and other small electric vehicles, proposing fines for violations of the new rules. The legislation, known as Bill No. 15284, outlines specific guidelines for the operation of these vehicles across the country.
Under the proposed legislation, small electric vehicles include one-, two-, or three-wheeled devices powered by electric motors capable of speeds exceeding 10 kilometers per hour. This encompasses electric scooters, monowheels, e-bikes, segways, hoverboards, and similar devices.
Permitted Areas for Use
Riders of small electric vehicles will be allowed to operate on designated bike lanes, the rightmost part of pedestrian zones, sidewalks, and recreational areas, provided they yield to pedestrians and remain vigilant about foot traffic. Additionally, they may travel on roadways only when using designated bike lanes.
Prohibited Areas
The legislation explicitly prohibits riding small electric vehicles on roadways without designated bike lanes and restricts access to pedestrian crossings. Riders must dismount and walk their vehicles across pedestrian crossings in accordance with traffic rules.
Speed Limits
The bill sets speed limits for small electric vehicles at a maximum of 50 kilometers per hour on bike lanes that do not border pedestrian areas. However, if the bike lane is adjacent to pedestrian zones, the speed limit is capped at 10 kilometers per hour.
Safety Measures and Alcohol Restrictions
Users of small electric vehicles are required to wear helmets while riding. During nighttime or in low visibility conditions, reflective vests or reflective elements on clothing are mandatory. Furthermore, operating these vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications that impair attention and reaction time is strictly prohibited.
Age Restrictions and Passenger Limits
The bill also imposes an age restriction, prohibiting individuals under 16 years old from riding on bike lanes that are part of the roadway. Additionally, no more than one person is allowed on a small electric vehicle at any given time.
Fines for Violations
First-time offenders will face a fine of 1,700 hryvnias (approximately 100 non-taxable minimum incomes). A second violation will result in a fine of 3,400 hryvnias and potential confiscation of the vehicle. Subsequent offenses could incur fines of up to 17,000 hryvnias, along with corrective labor for one month and vehicle confiscation.
Challenges in Enforcement
Experts have pointed out that current legislation presents challenges in holding electric scooter riders accountable for violations. Mykola Ilchuk, an advocate for road safety, noted that while electric scooters have been classified as vehicles, the legal definition of the operator remains ambiguous, complicating enforcement efforts.
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Ukraine's Parliament has proposed a bill to regulate electric scooters, introducing fines for violations. The legislation aims to ensure safety while addressing the growing popularity of these vehicles.