This week, Dubai Police raised an alert on e-scooter safety, when it announced that in the past eight months, accidents involving e-scooters and cycles have led to five deaths, with 32 accidents being recorded. The numbers were released by Dubai Police on Tuesday, October 24, which included the number of fines that had been issued to electric bicycles and e-scooters during this period – 10,031.
Over the past few years, e-scooters have become a popular choice for residents as they are affordable and easy to ride and maintain. But, if you are inexperienced or do not follow the rules, it can lead to fines, impoundment of the e-scooter, and – in serious cases – injuries or fatalities.
Following road safety guidelines can help keep both you and other drivers safe while on the roads. Wearing bright clothing or reflective gear makes it easier for other drivers to see you on the roads at night or during bad weather conditions. It also helps reduce your chances of being involved in a collision with another vehicle. By understanding and adhering to traffic laws, you become more aware of what’s going on around you which increases your chances of avoiding potential hazards while out on the roads. Riding an electric scooter can be fun but there are certain risks associated with it that must be taken into consideration before getting behind the handlebars. That’s why Dubai police encourage all e-scooter riders to familiarize themselves with local traffic regulations and always wear protective gear when out on their rides.
E-scooter riders need to keep these basic rules in mind at all times, to ensure they stay safe and so do other road users:
1. Ride on designated tracks, adhere to traffic instructions and regulations, and warning signs on the tracks.
2. Avoid riding e-scooters outside designated or shared lanes.
3. Avoid reckless driving that endangers the public.
4. Leave a safe distance between e-scooters, bikes and pedestrians.
5. Wear a helmet and a reflective jacket.
6. Do not carry anything or any passenger that can cause the e-scooter to lose its balance.
In Dubai, some areas have designated lanes for cycles and e-scooters. Some of these areas, include Kite Beach, Dubai Water Canal, Jumeirah Street, and Al Marsa Street in Dubai Marina.
However, places like Al Qudra Cycling Track, Mushrif Mountain Bike Trail, and Meydan Track are only for cyclists. According to the RTA, you should avoid riding the e-scooter in undesignated areas.
