E-Scooter Accidents on the Rise: Germany Introduces Tougher Rules for Riders and Owners

Victims of e-scooter accidents in Germany may soon find it easier to claim compensation. On Tuesday, the Federal Ministry of Justice presented a draft bill that aims to tighten the liability of both e-scooter owners and riders. According to the ministry, owners will soon be held responsible for damages even if they were not directly at fault in causing an accident. This so-called “strict liability” would also apply to companies that rent e-scooters in major cities.

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For riders, the bill proposes liability based on assumed fault, meaning they would also be responsible for damages if they cannot prove they were not at fault. Ultimately, accidents involving e-scooters would follow the same liability rules as car accidents.

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Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig (SPD) stated, “E-scooters are polarizing. Many appreciate them as a practical mode of transport, while others are annoyed by scooters being left recklessly on sidewalks.” She emphasized that accidents are becoming increasingly common, particularly involving vehicles from sharing providers. “We must hold the providers more accountable. If their scooters cause damage, they must compensate, no ifs, no buts,” Hubig said.

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The number of e-scooter accidents has risen sharply in recent years. In 2020, fewer than 6,000 people were involved in e-scooter accidents; by 2024, that number had more than doubled to over 12,000. The number of third-party claims handled by insurers has also increased: while 1,150 claims were processed in 2020, that figure rose to 5,000 in 2024.

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