Safe on the way: E-scooter accidents in Vienna at an alarming level
Safe on the way: E-scooter accidents in Vienna at an alarming level
E-Scooter are incredibly popular in our cities, especially in Vienna. These small electrical companions offer a flexible and quick way to move on. But often the dangers that are associated with their use are greatly underestimated. A new statistics of the ÖAMTC now open the terrifying numbers of accidents associated with e-scooters.
In 2023 there were 1,762 accidents in all of Austria in which e-scooters were involved. The special thing: Almost a third of these incidents occurred in the federal capital of Vienna. The statistics of 521 accidents in the city reported, with 40 seriously injured and 377 minor injuries. However, there was no single death in Vienna among the three victims reported across Germany.
The causes of accidents
The data show that most accidents are caused by various factors. More than 28 percent of the incidents are due to priority violations. Carelessness and distraction played a role in 23 percent of accidents. What is particularly striking is the high proportion of accidents that happen by disregarding traffic rules (20 percent) or through the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication (12 percent).
David Nosé, traffic technician at the ÖAMTC, emphasizes that there are two main problems: lack of driving skills and too low risk awareness among drivers. This problem is reinforced if the users are under the influence of intoxicating means.
Interestingly, the investigation of accidents with e-scooters is the first of its kind. Previously, these numbers were often recorded together with bicycle and e-bike accidents, which made it difficult to analyze.The driving dynamics of e-scooters also require special skill. Therefore, the ÖAMTC experts strongly recommend that drivers practice in a secure area before their first trip. Wearing a helmet is also considered important to reduce the risk of serious injuries in the event of a fall.
In the further recommendation, it is pointed out that non -healthy drivers can avoid more heavier, especially at dusk opposing vehicles, and that bright, reflective clothing can minimize the risk of accidents on dark days.
The fact that despite the high number of accidents in Vienna, the city, despite the high number of accidents in Vienna, was particularly noted compared to the other federal states, had no fatal accidents. This positive result could partially be attributed to the increasing sensitization of the e-scooter users for the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.The discussion about safety in road traffic is further fueled by this data. A Bell Jammer, a new regulation for rental e scooters in Vienna, is intended to reduce future accidents and make use more secure. The ÖAMTC is available to further measures that could increase security on the streets.