Germany set to make rental e-scooter operators liable for accidents
Germany is preparing to introduce a new law that would make rental e-scooter companies directly responsible for accidents involving their vehicles, making it easier for victims to claim compensation.
The proposed legislation, expected to be approved by parliament, would place rental e-scooters on a legal footing similar to cars. Companies operating shared scooters, including Lime and Bolt, would become legally liable for damage caused by their vehicles, even when identifying the rider responsible is difficult. The move comes after a sharp increase in e-scooter use and accidents since the vehicles were legalized in Germany in 2019.
Under the current system, people injured in e-scooter accidents must prove that the rider was at fault before they can receive compensation. This has often been challenging because riders can be difficult to identify, especially in hit-and-run cases or when scooters are left parked dangerously on sidewalks. The new law would allow victims to seek compensation directly from the rental company instead.
The German government says road safety concerns have grown rapidly in recent years. Around 12,000 e-scooter accidents were recorded in 2024, resulting in 27 deaths and approximately 1,500 serious injuries. Officials also reported a significant rise in pedestrians being struck by e-scooters, reinforcing the need for stricter accountability.
Consumer rights organizations have welcomed the proposal, arguing that companies profiting from e-scooter rentals should also accept responsibility for the risks associated with their services. Industry representatives, however, warn that the changes could lead to an increase in fraudulent compensation claims and higher operating costs. Alongside the liability reforms, Germany is also planning additional safety measures, including mandatory turn indicators and stricter penalties for traffic violations involving e-scooters.