Almost 100% of the scooter owners checked on Tuesday, in an unprecedented police operation... had unhitched their machines to exceed 25km/h, the threshold above which these machines lose their legal compliance. As a result, 14 scooters were seized.

Exceeding this limit, in particular by deliberately unbridling the limitation device, is a criminal offence liable to prosecution. The authorities stress that such manipulations significantly increase the risk of accidents, as stability, braking and user protection are deemed insufficient at higher speeds.

The danger is deemed particularly high in areas frequented by pedestrians, such as public parks. The Public Prosecutor’s Office points out that offences detected may result in criminal penalties for both adult and minor drivers. In the case of minors, specific consequences may apply under youth protection law. Parents or legal representatives may also be held liable if it is established that they have allowed or tolerated the use of an obviously non-compliant or dangerous device.

The Public Prosecutor’s Office stresses that road safety remains a priority and points out that the use of an electric scooter implies strict compliance with the Highway Code, in the same way as any other vehicle. Failure to comply with the rules on speed, compulsory equipment or conditions of use exposes offenders to prosecution. The press release is primarily aimed at prevention, in order to avoid risky behaviour and accidents with potentially serious or even irreversible consequences.