France Considers Mandatory Helmets for Electric Scooter Riders Amid Rising Accidents

France's government is pushing for mandatory helmet use for electric scooter riders, a move that could significantly alter user habits. Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, the Minister Delegate for the Interior, has tasked the road safety authority with developing a national plan for helmet standardization.

This initiative comes in response to a stark increase in scooter accidents. "The figures are undeniable; we went from 10 deaths in 2019 to 79 in 2025. In parallel, the number of serious injuries rose from around 200 to nearly 1,200," Vedrenne told Le Figaro. The government's immediate focus is on electric scooters and similar devices like electric skateboards and gyropods.

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The figures are undeniable; we went from 10 deaths in 2019 to 79 in 2025. In parallel, the number of serious injuries rose from around 200 to nearly 1,200.

While the discussion may eventually include cyclists and other vulnerable road users, the current urgency centers on scooters. The proposed regulation aims to enhance safety for a mode of transport that has grown in popularity but also in risk. The government's stance, "No question of waiting until 2027 to act," signals a commitment to swift implementation.

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No question of waiting until 2027 to act.