Kickscooters aren't on the same level as Kids' scooters, so some more regulations are being suggested

Kickscooters have become a staple across Europe, and Malta. However, Insurance Associations are urging to decrease permitted speeds in light of accidents occurring between riders and pedestrians on pavements.

Various incidents associated with kick-scooters are being reported, with some being grievous as the case in Bugibba at the end of August '21. The safety of these scooters has been highly debated, with recent motions by insurance companies urging to decrease their allowed speed on pavements to 6km/hr for the safety of pedestrians as well as riders, as opposed to the current 10km/hr allowance. Meanwhile, the General Director of the Association of Insurance Companies, Adrian Galea, stated that more informative and inclusive regulations should be promoted and enforced, as many private kick-scooter owners are riding these 'vehicles' uninsured, which when involved in an incident may cause local or international court cases if persons involved in accidents are also foreign. 

If you have a kick-scooter and would like to find out more on the registration and insurance policies, that can be found Here. This applies to persons over 16 years, who can legally ride kick-scooters and in turn, have earlier access to a sustainable means of transport for the commute to school or work, as opposed to years of saving to get a car by 18, which has been the norm in Malta for years. 

However, although these scooters can be driven on roads at higher speeds in relation to the traffic and one's safety, the best option for the 'worst-case scenario', such as accidents would be to cover the ride legally. While possibly, in the future the regulation may urge these scooters off the sidewalks entirely, as those trails should be prioritized for pedestrians who shouldn't constantly look over their shoulder for more motorized vehicles in such close proximity. 

What do you think of having the kick-scooter's speed decreased on sidewalks, or should they be ushered to the street network instead? Share your thoughts in the comments below!