E-scooters are very popular in the UAE nowadays, where most people opt for such a mode of transport instead of buying a car or using delivery services, or to finish nearby errands. The UAE’s E-scooter initiative was aimed at promoting more people to use environmentally friendly modes of transportation and help reduce traffic congestion in a sustainable manner. It has become a major part of urban mobility initiatives in Dubai.

The most common causes of E-scooter accidents are:

  1. Reckless driving
  2. Riding outside designated lanes
  3. Over speeding
  4. Failure to wear helmets
  5. Riding by minors
  6. Using mobile phones or headsets while driving

UAE Laws and Regulations Governing E-Scooters

Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022 Regulating the Use of Cycles in the Emirate of Dubai

This Executive Council Resolution mentions E-scooters in the definition of cycles. Hence, it is applicable to E-scooters also. Scooters are defined as two- or more-wheeled vehicles which have an electric engine or, with physical power, are ridden standing up without a seat.

The obligations of an E-scooter rider are clearly mentioned, and they are:

  1. A rider’s permit should be obtained to ride the E-scooter.
  2. Electric scooters should only be ridden in areas determined by the RTA.
  3. The speed limit prescribed by the RTA should not be exceeded.
  4. Riding an E-scooter with a passenger is prohibited.
  5. A safe distance should be maintained with other vehicles.
  6. Ensure the parts of the scooter are in good condition.
  7. A person under the age of 16 is not allowed to ride an electric scooter.
  8. A person riding the E-scooter should not do any act that disrupts traffic.

Federal Decree-Law No. (14) of 2024 on Traffic Regulation

Under Article 7 of this Federal Law, it states that all road users must use roads safely and avoid causing accidents or obstructing traffic.

The RTA has taken several measures to ensure the safety of E-scooter riders:

  1. Red carpet markings to alert motorists about E-scooter areas. These are regularly maintained by the RTA.
  2. Traffic signs that indicate the beginning and end of safe tracks for E-scooters, modified speed signs, traffic and cautionary signs, and directional signs leading to public transport stations.

Through the above laws, we can clearly understand that E-scooter riders must follow regulations and ensure that they do not create situations that cause traffic disruption. If an accident happens due to negligence of the E-scooter rider because he did not abide by the laws laid down for E-scooter riders, then they will be liable for the damages caused by the accident.

If an accident happens, then the matter would be reported to the police, and the police will investigate whose fault it is. Then, depending on the circumstances and gravity of injuries, if the negligence was on the part of the E-scooter rider, they will have to face criminal and civil consequences that might arise.

E-scooters are a more environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable means of transport. Though they carry a lot of benefits, there is a high chance of accidents happening if users do not follow traffic rules. Every person on the road is equally responsible for following the rules and not causing an accident.