Paris Mandates Helmets, Reflective Gear for E-Scooter Riders

Electric scooter riders in Paris and its inner suburbs are now mandated to wear helmets and reflective gear following new regulations implemented on Friday. The measures come in response to a notable rise in injuries associated with these two-wheeled devices, including a sharp increase in fatalities among "unprotected road users."

Police stated that the new rules apply to all motorized mobility devices, such as e-scooters, Segways, and hoverboards, which have seen a surge in popularity. Although rental e-scooters were banned in Paris in 2023 due to safety concerns, privately owned devices remain in common use.

The decision to enforce helmet and gear usage was prompted by a significant proportion of accidents resulting in serious or fatal head injuries. Data from France's road safety watchdog indicates that 79 "unprotected road users" died in 2025, a substantial increase from 45 the previous year. Additionally, approximately 1,100 e-scooter users suffered serious injuries in 2025, marking a 33 percent rise from 2024.

Failure to adhere to the new regulations carries financial penalties: a 135-euro ($156) fine for not wearing a helmet and a 35-euro fine for lacking high-visibility vests or reflective gear. These rules are in effect at all times on public roads. Paris joins other European cities like Madrid and Brussels, which have also introduced crackdowns on e-scooters in recent years.