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Paris is cracking down on rules for users of rideables such as electric scooters, Segways, and electric skateboards, as crashes involving such devices continue to rise in the French capital.
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Police officers have launched a targeted operation in the city to enforce a new order for riders to wear helmets and reflective gear that took effect on 7 August.
Those caught without a helmet will now be hit with a €135 fine, while riders spotted without reflective gear face a €35 fine, according to police.
Hélène Denéchère, a spokesperson for the Paris police prefecture, highlighted the need for the new measures.
“Since the start of the year, 136 personal injury accidents have involved vehicles of this kind, an increase of 12%. This is therefore the only category of road users in Paris for which personal injury accidents are on the rise,” Denéchère said.
She noted that while some riders already comply, others see the rules as an added burden. But she stressed that “wearing a helmet reduces the severity of these accidents.”
Public reaction in Paris remains divided, however.
Rider Pierre Thoribé acknowledged the necessity of the gear despite being caught without it.
“It’s perfectly natural for me to have a helmet, which I don’t have today… It’s exceptional. I forgot my helmet,” he said.
Software developer Igor Monteiro, who already wears head protection, praised the enforcement.
“I think it’s very good. It’s normal if you want safety. I’ve always used it… To me it’s normal,” he said, adding he was unaware of the new rules.
Youssef Mourgui, a tattoo artist, urged fellow users to consider the risks of riding without protective gear.
“Honestly, for yourself, it’s good for safety. Because I know someone who works in a hospital; he told us he gets loads of people coming in, every time with their skulls smashed. There are even some now who are in wheelchairs,” Mourgui said. “Not because of the police, but honestly, it’s better for our health to wear a helmet.”
For others, the fine seems to be too hefty. One female scooter rider said the €135 fine for those caught with no helmet was in particular “a bit expensive,” adding that users are getting “used to it now with everything that’s going on.”
Those opposed to the new rules have criticised them as overly restrictive, arguing that it should be left up to personal choice.
“I think it’s better to let people be free and do what they want. If they have an accident afterwards, that’s just tough luck for them,” cyclist Romaric Bouton said. “We’re not going to start holding everyone’s hand and forcing them to wear a vest, a helmet, just because there are so many accidents every year. After that, we’re no longer free to do what we want.”
Additional sources • AFP