Sharing the road with e-scooters and micromobility is now part of everyday city driving. Compact electric vehicles use cycle lanes, the carriageway and sometimes the pavement. Drivers must combine defensive driving with an understanding of the extra protection these riders need.
Why micromobility demands attention
| Characteristic | Consequence for drivers | How to respond |
|---|---|---|
| Small silhouette, quick pace | Harder to detect in mirrors and at junctions | Check mirrors twice and glance over your shoulder |
| Unpredictable line choice | May swap between pavement and carriageway | Reduce speed and expand your safety margin |
| Mixed rider experience | New riders may wobble or brake suddenly | Keep generous space and expect abrupt stops |
| Shared operating areas | Share cycle and bus lanes | Follow bus and HOV lane rules carefully |
Rules every driver should know
| Rule or routine | Key point | Read more |
|---|---|---|
| Overtaking cyclists | Minimum 1.5 m lateral clearance above 60 km/h | Apply the same margin to e-scooters in the carriageway |
| Road user groups and consideration | Vulnerable users take priority in mixed traffic | Plan so you do not force them into risky positions |
| Rules for special vehicles | Micromobility counts as slow vehicles | Show caution, especially at crossings |
Safe passing distance
Treat micromobility like cyclists when you pass.
- Keep at least 1.5 metres of lateral distance above 30 km/h.
- Drop below 30 km/h if the lane is narrow or the surface is slippery.
- Avoid tailgating; small wheels react poorly to potholes and can topple.
Typical scenarios
| Scenario | Risk | Recommended response |
|---|---|---|
| E-scooter in a cycle lane | Wobbling line while balancing | Maintain distance and only pass where the lane is wide |
| Sharing a bus lane | Riders surprised when buses pull in | Check mirrors before leaving stops or turning |
| Crossing at pedestrian lights | Sudden acceleration when signals change | Ease off the throttle and give way as you would to pedestrians |
| Parked e-scooters in the road | Blocks sight line on narrow streets | Increase distance and be ready for evasive action |
Everyday best practices
- Seek eye contact when possible – a short wave or gentle headlight flash confirms mutual awareness.
- Position clearly in the lane so overtakes happen deliberately and with space.
- Avoid using the horn unless danger is imminent; a smooth lift off the throttle signals your presence.
- Plan for roundabouts: expect e-scooters to follow the inner track and adjust speed accordingly.
- Report hazards to the municipality when parked scooters create unsafe choke points.
Frequently asked questions
Do I always have to yield to e-scooters?
Follow normal give-way rules, but in mixed traffic you must still show extra care and avoid forcing them into conflict zones.
May e-scooters use the pavement?
Yes, but they must keep walking pace and yield to pedestrians. Be ready for them to move quickly back onto the carriageway.
How do I document a near miss?
Use dashcam footage if available and note the time and place. Reporting helps the authorities address recurring problem areas.