A traffic hazard and littering according to those who are against. A smooth way to get around in a modern urban environment think those who are in favor.
Today, the fate of electric scooters will be decided in the French capital through a referendum.
- Paris' socialist mayor has promised that she will follow the results of the referendum, she herself wants to see a ban, says SVT's Europe correspondent David Boati.
Rules tightened
As recently as a week ago, the rules for the use of electric scooters in Paris were tightened. The age limit was raised from 12 to 14 years and the fine for riding more than one person was significantly increased. This is after the astonishing statistics that electric scooters with more than one person on them are involved in every fifth traffic accident in the city.
The vote does not apply to privately owned electric scooters, but only to those you can rent through various apps and then park on the street when you are done with them. In total, there are 15,000 electric scooters in Paris, from three different companies.
Several French cities are expected to follow suit if Parisians vote for a ban.