Fear for schoolchildren as electric scooter accidents surge in Norway

Parents in Norway's Akershus and Buskerud regions are expressing grave concerns over the safety of their children traveling to and from school. The primary worry stems from the reckless behavior of electric scooter riders, who often appear to disregard traffic regulations. Adding to the danger, many scooters have been illegally modified to achieve "man-slaughter speeds."

Recent statistics paint a stark picture of the risks associated with electric scooters. Since 2020, Norwegian emergency medical services have treated 1,538 individuals for scooter-related injuries in 2025, more than double the previous year's 765 cases. In the first half of this year alone, 588 accidents involving these devices were reported. Overall, from 2019 to the present, a staggering 8,095 people have received treatment for injuries linked to electric scooters.

Law enforcement is increasingly concerned. Lars Fosse, prevention manager for the police in Fredrikstad, noted that a serious accident involving a scooter modified to reach 83 kilometers per hour was "exactly what the police had been waiting for" – not in anticipation, but due to growing worries fueled by numerous reports from frightened residents witnessing dangerous riding.

Police are particularly concerned about young riders who possess limited driving experience, a poor understanding of speed, and insufficient knowledge of traffic rules. In Norway, electric scooters are classified as light electric vehicles with a minimum age limit of twelve, though rental companies may impose higher age restrictions. Legally, scooters should be equipped with a lock limiting their maximum speed to 20 kilometers per hour. However, widespread modifications allow them to reach speeds close to 100 kilometers per hour.

Since June 15, 2022, Norwegian traffic laws have made riding electric scooters under the influence of alcohol punishable, with the same blood alcohol content limits as cars. Violators face license suspension and fines. Despite these regulations, the concerns of parents in Akershus and Buskerud highlight a persistent safety issue on school routes.

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That is exactly what the police have been waiting for. I don't mean that we were waiting for it to happen, but we have concerns and we receive numerous reports from frightened residents who witness reckless driving, which we have also seen.