The tightening of regulations on motorized personal mobility devices is accelerating in France. The prefect of Manche announced on August 6th that wearing a helmet and a high-visibility vest will become mandatory for all electric scooter users starting September 1st, 2026. This decision is part of a broader initiative led by several prefects and mayors in the Île-de-France region, who are facing a rise in accidents involving these devices. The measure aims to improve user safety, as they are particularly vulnerable in urban traffic.
Vaucluse leads the way
Other regions have already taken the plunge. Vaucluse is a pioneer: since July 1st, a prefectural decree dated June 12th mandates helmets for riders of electric scooters, as well as unicycles, Segways, and hoverboards. Violators face a €35 fine. This local regulation reflects a growing desire among authorities to better regulate these new modes of transportation, which have long existed in a legal vacuum.
The departments adopting these measures aim to prevent accidents that are often serious. Prefects are increasing their efforts to harmonize safety regulations in response to practices deemed dangerous on public roads. This movement could spread to other regions in the coming months, as the number of road users continues to rise in urban areas.
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