**Title: Calls for Legislative Overhaul Amid Rising E-Scooter Incidents in Cyprus**
**Date: September 16, 2026**
As the popularity of electric scooters continues to rise in Cyprus, so too do concerns surrounding road safety and the adequacy of existing regulations. Recent statistics reveal a troubling increase in both accidents and public complaints related to e-scooter usage, prompting calls for a comprehensive review of the current legislation governing their operation.
Electric scooters have become a favored mode of transportation due to their affordability, eco-friendliness, and convenience. However, the surge in their use has not been met with a corresponding enhancement in road infrastructure or regulatory oversight. A representative from the Department of Public Works acknowledged in a recent parliamentary session that the current road network is ill-equipped to accommodate personal mobility devices like scooters. This situation is compounded by the fact that no country has a complete cycling infrastructure, and Cyprus is no exception.
The need for improved infrastructure is underscored by alarming statistics. In 2024, there were only two recorded incidents involving e-scooter riders, one of which was serious. However, this number escalated dramatically in 2025, with 15 incidents reported, including six serious injuries. This year, the trend has continued, with nine incidents already documented—two of which resulted in fatalities and four serious injuries. Notably, minors were involved in nine of these cases, raising additional concerns about the safety of young riders.
Complaints regarding e-scooter usage have also surged, with figures showing an increase from 2,499 in 2024 to 2,766 in 2025, and a staggering 5,141 complaints recorded so far this year. According to police reports, the majority of these complaints stem from scooters being ridden in prohibited areas, highlighting a clear need for better enforcement of existing laws.
The rising number of accidents and complaints has led to calls for more frequent and systematic checks on the streets to ensure compliance with safety regulations. Advocates argue that these checks should be coupled with a complete overhaul of the current legislation governing e-scooter use. The current laws, they contend, are insufficient to address the realities of increased scooter traffic and the associated risks.
Proponents of enhanced cycling infrastructure suggest that building dedicated lanes for bicycles and scooters could significantly reduce the number of scooters on the roads, thereby improving safety for all road users. They argue that such infrastructure is essential not only for the safety of e-scooter riders but also for pedestrians and other motorists.
As Cyprus grapples with the challenges posed by the growing popularity of electric scooters, the need for legislative reform and improved infrastructure has never been more pressing. Stakeholders are calling for immediate action to address these issues, emphasizing that the safety of all road users must be prioritized as the country navigates the evolving landscape of urban mobility.
In conclusion, while electric scooters offer a modern and efficient means of transportation, the current regulatory framework and infrastructure in Cyprus are inadequate to ensure the safety of riders and pedestrians alike. Without prompt legislative action and enhanced road safety measures, the risks associated with e-scooter use are likely to continue rising, underscoring the urgent need for change.