Electric Scooters in Ukraine: Legal Regulations and Liability

A fatal traffic accident near Kyiv, in which a young boy riding an electric scooter was killed, has brought into sharp focus the legal status of this mode of transportation and the extent of liability for its users. Such incidents draw attention to which specific regulations govern the use of electric scooters in Ukraine and whether there are clear rules for their operation.

As of today, Ukraine lacks a separate regulatory act that would comprehensively regulate the use of electric scooters. Furthermore, the legislation does not contain clearly defined requirements regarding the minimum age of users and the maximum permissible speed. At the same time, in accordance with the Traffic Rules of Ukraine and the Law of Ukraine “On Road Traffic,” individuals riding electric scooters are recognized as road users. Due to the absence of specific regulations, the relevant rules apply to them by analogy, particularly those established for cyclists.

According to the provisions of the Traffic Rules, travel must take place on bicycle lanes, and in their absence—on the right-hand side of the roadway. Travel on sidewalks is permitted only if it does not obstruct pedestrians. Regarding age, there is no specific rule, but by analogy with the rules for cyclists, riding on the roadway is permitted for persons who have reached the age of 14. In the case of electric scooters being used by minors, responsibility lies with the parents or legal guardians.

The issue of speed is also not regulated by law. In practice, most rental services set speed limits of around 20 km/h, but such limits do not have the status of a universally binding regulation.

Violations of the rules for using electric scooters entail administrative liability under Article 127 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses. In the event of driving under the influence of alcohol, Article 130 of the same Code may apply. If a violation of traffic rules results in bodily injury or the death of the victim, criminal liability arises under Article 286 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine.

Thus, despite the absence of a specific law, electric scooters are effectively integrated into the traffic system, and their users are liable under general provisions. Existing gaps in legal regulation, particularly regarding age restrictions and speed limits, indicate the need for legislative regulation of this issue.