Paris Imposes New E-Scooter Rules: Helmets and Reflective Vests Required, Fines Up to €170

According to new regulations issued by the City of Paris, as of August 9, 2024, residents must wear a certified helmet and either a reflective vest or high-visibility clothing when using electric scooters or self-balancing vehicles on public roads. Failure to wear a certified helmet will result in a €135 fine, while not wearing a reflective vest or high-visibility clothing will incur a €35 fine; committing both violations simultaneously will lead to a total fine of €170. Data from France’s road safety authority shows that in 2023, 79 people died nationwide in electric scooter-related accidents, and 1,100 individuals were injured in such incidents in the Paris region alone—an increase of 33% compared to the previous year. Although Paris banned shared electric scooter services in 2023, privately owned electric scooters remain permitted on public roads. As of 2023, France had approximately 2.5 million privately owned electric scooters, with several hundred thousand additional units sold since then.