Electric Scooters Temporarily Banned Due to Public Safety Concerns

Today, Albana Koçiu, the Minister of the Interior, announced the temporary suspension of electric scooter circulation across the country, citing growing concerns over public safety. The State Police conducted a detailed analysis that identified a significant increase in accidents involving electric scooters, particularly in urban areas, which led to this decision.
“We have received a series of complaints and reports from citizens regarding the risks these vehicles pose, especially to minors and the elderly who use the roads, as well as to the riders themselves. Data from the State Police confirm this growing problem,” stated Minister Koçiu.
According to Ilir Proda, the director general of the state police, electric scooters have become an immediate threat to public order and safety. In 2024 alone, emergency services reported 991 accidents involving these vehicles, some of which resulted in fatalities.
To address this issue, the State Police have established a standard procedure under the Law on the State Police that provides for penalties against scooter users, as well as a ban on using them on urban roads and sidewalks. This procedure also allows for the administrative confiscation of the vehicles.
“Starting Monday, the State Police will launch an operation to stop the circulation of these vehicles, and we ask for the public’s understanding during this process,” Proda emphasized.
Once the regulatory process is complete, electric scooters will only be permitted for personal use, not rental or commercial activities.
“We will establish unambiguous and implementable regulations for all. We will define, once and for all, which lanes, roads, and areas scooters can use and which they cannot, as well as the criteria for age limits, required safety equipment such as helmets and lighting, and permitted speeds,” the Minister explained.
Albania is not alone in facing this issue. France, Italy, Germany, North Macedonia, and many other countries have also taken strict measures, including full or partial bans. Minister Koçiu emphasized that Albanian authorities will study European best practices to balance the interests of all parties involved.
This decision is part of a new public safety package designed to strengthen security and improve traffic conditions in urban areas. The goal is to protect citizens’ lives and reduce the number of accidents.