August 26, 2026, 1:25 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Starting in 2027, Germany will implement extensive new regulations for e-scooters. The changes will affect not only the technology of the vehicles but also fines, traffic rules, and liability in accidents.
Turn Signals Become Mandatory, Safety Standards Rise
E-scooters have become a fixture on the streets. However, with their increasing prevalence, there has also been a rise in accidents and complaints about reckless driving and improperly parked rental scooters. Lawmakers are responding with a comprehensive overhaul of the rules for small electric vehicles.
As attorney Kay Stolle reports, a key innovation concerns the technology: New e-scooters must be equipped with turn signals as standard starting in 2027. This aims to make turning maneuvers safer, as riders will no longer have to take a hand off the handlebars. Additionally, authorities are tightening requirements for brakes, batteries, and driving stability. However, existing models are grandfathered in, and a general retrofit is not planned.
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New Traffic Rules and Higher Fines
Starting in March 2027, e-scooters will be more closely aligned with bicycles in several areas. Riders will be allowed to use the green arrow for bicycle traffic, provided they stop first and do not endanger other road users. At the same time, some special regulations will be simplified.
Certain sidewalks, pedestrian zones, or bus lanes with the additional sign “Bicycle traffic allowed” may also be opened to e-scooters in the future. However, the requirement remains to maintain walking speed and show special consideration for pedestrians. Those who do not follow the rules will face higher penalties: The fine for unauthorized riding on sidewalks will increase from 15 to 25 euros. Riding with two people on an e-scooter will also be penalized with 25 euros instead of the previous 5 euros.
Also of interest: Where you can’t ride an e-scooter
Cities Gain More Control Over Rental Scooters
Another focus of the reform concerns sharing services. Cities and municipalities will receive additional powers to regulate the parking of rental e-scooters. In the future, they can designate fixed parking zones or special spaces to prevent blocked sidewalks, entrances, and stops.
Additionally, liability rules in accidents are changing. Victims will be able to assert claims for damages more easily. To this end, owner liability will be expanded, especially for rental scooters. For drivers and providers, this means a higher financial risk in the event of accidents or improperly parked vehicles. Overall, e-scooters will be more legally integrated into road traffic and treated similarly to bicycles.