Police in Radom, Poland are investigating two e-scooter incidents, one involving a 14-year-old riding under the influence.
E-Scooter Incidents Under Investigation
Police are investigating the circumstances of two road incidents involving e-scooter riders. Authorities are urging caution from all road users and reminding the public that e-scooters are not toys, and their use carries specific responsibilities.
Regulations prohibit children under 13 from riding on roads, as well as riding without proper authorization or while under the influence of alcohol.
First Incident: 12-Year-Old Injured
The first incident occurred on Friday, April 17th, on Łokietka Street in Radom. A 12-year-old riding an e-scooter on the roadway lost control and fell, sustaining bodily injuries. The child was transported to the hospital.
Second Incident: Teenager Riding Under the Influence
On Sunday, April 19th, in Krzyszkowice, a 14-year-old riding an e-scooter crashed for unknown reasons. The teenager was found to be intoxicated, with a blood alcohol content of nearly 1.5 per mille.
E-Scooter Regulations and Safety
E-scooter riders are required to use bicycle lanes when available, at a maximum speed of 20 km/h. If no bicycle lane is present, they must use the roadway, also at a maximum speed of 20 km/h, or 30 km/h if permitted.
Riders may exceptionally use sidewalks or pedestrian paths when traveling alongside roads with speed limits exceeding 30 km/h, provided they maintain a pedestrian-like speed, exercise extreme caution, and yield to pedestrians.
What is Prohibited?
Regulations emphasize the importance of safe e-scooter and bicycle use, urging parents to remind their children of traffic laws. Leading by example is crucial, as children often imitate adult behavior.
Accidents can happen to anyone, regardless of age, due to a moment of inattention, a poor maneuver, road irregularities, or carelessness.