Aalto University study: Joint efforts needed to improve electric scooter safety

Aalto University has published a study on the use and safety of electric scooters in Helsinki. The research project on the use of electric scooters looked into how cities are continuously changing. It was funded by the Ministry of Transport and Communications, City of Helsinki and three companies offering electric scooter rentals, Voi, TIER and Lime.

The idea for the study was put forward when the number of first aid visits related to electric scooters in the Helsinki area began to increase. The study aimed to examine the details and timing of first aid visits related to electric scooters, the behaviour of scooter riders and the views on scooter use of both those who ride scooters and those who do not.

Safety has improved but problems still arise with electric scooter use

The study indicates that electric scooter safety has improved over time. According to estimates, electric scooter safety in Helsinki is approaching the level of cycling. Despite improved safety, there are still problems with the use of electric scooters. One of the problems is riding while intoxicated. According to the study, an estimated 35 per cent of those who had suffered electric scooter injuries in 2022 had been intoxicated. In addition, an analysis of electric scooter observations showed that although half of the users ride safely, one in four users were found to ride in a dangerous way.

The study recommends that practices to improve electric scooter safety be developed in cooperation with stakeholders. Cooperation would make it easier to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of different means to improve safety. The study also identified a need to develop the cycling infrastructure and temporary traffic arrangements, in addition to jointly agreed practices.

Ministry is investigating the maximum alcohol limit for micromobility and the powers of cities

In accordance with the Transport Safety Strategy, the Ministry of Transport and Communications has launched studies on the maximum alcohol limit for micromobility and cycling, and on the powers of cities to guide and direct micromobility transport services in their areas.

The Ministry will carry out the study on the alcohol limit for micromobility and cycling in cooperation with the Ministry of Justice. The study will assess the setting of a maximum alcohol limit and its impacts on traffic safety.

Inquiries:

Sofia Johansson, Senior Officer, Ministry of Transport and Communications, tel. +358 50 573 7908, [email protected]

Professor Milos Mladenovic, Department of Built Environment, Aalto University, [email protected]