Germany to hold rental e-scooter operators liable for accidents

Germany's parliament is scheduled to vote on legislation that would make rental e-scooter operators liable for accidents involving their vehicles. The draft law treats rental e-scooters like cars for liability purposes. Operators would be responsible for damage even when the rider cannot be identified.

Current accident statistics Government data show e-scooter accidents resulting in injury or death more than doubled between 2021 and 2024, rising from 5,535 to nearly 12,000. Twenty-seven riders died in 2024, while about 1,500 people suffered serious injuries and 11,400 sustained minor injuries.

Non-riders hit by e-scooters increased from 1,150 in 2020 to about 5,000 in 2023. Rental users are younger and more likely to ride on pavements than private owners, according to insurance data.

Changes to claims process Under current rules, victims must prove the rider was at fault to receive compensation. The new law would allow claims directly against rental companies. Riders would share liability for presumed fault in collisions, consistent with rules already applied to cars. The legislation also addresses accidents caused by scooters left on footpaths.

Industry and public response Consumer advocates said the measure strengthens rights for people injured by rental scooters. A representative of e-scooter operators warned the rules could increase fraudulent claims and court cases. A YouGov poll found 67 percent of German voters support the liability changes.

The government has separately approved new safety requirements for e-scooters starting next year, including mandatory turn indicators and higher fines for carrying passengers.