The rapid increase in the use of electric skates has changed the way we travel in urban centres, creating new conditions for mobility, but also new challenges for road safety.
Recent incidents of crashes in our country, with victims underage users and serious injuries, demonstrate a worrying trend that is confirmed not only in Greece but also at European level.
According to data from the European Union, the fatalities associated with the use of electric skates and light personal electric vehicles increased from 61 in 2021 to 92 in 2022, with over 80% of these resulting from collisions with heavier vehicles. This development clearly highlights that micromobility, although a viable and flexible urban mobility solution, is part of ahigh risk road environment, especially for vulnerable road users.
In Greece, the current institutional framework through the Road Traffic Code sets clear rules for the use of these means of transport, such as the speed limit of 25 km/h, their use on the road network by persons aged 15 years and above, the prohibition of traffic on pavements, as well as the obligation to have lighting and reflective elements. The use of helmet is a critical condition for the protection of users and is highly recommended for all.
In this direction, the Institute of Road Safety (I.O.A.S.) “Panos Mylonas” has set as a top priority the protection of human life on the road with the parallel information on the integration of micro-mobility in the modern road environment. It points out that the use of skates is not just an alternative form of mobility, but implies full integration into the road system, with rights and obligations. The driver should observe rules, protect himself/herself and respect all road users.
The Panhellenic Association of Driving and Traffic Instructors has also taken a position on this issue, which provides free specialised lessons to electric skate users. This initiative aims to actively reduce road accidents, foster responsible driving behaviour, create a new culture of coexistence among all road users and increase the knowledge and confidence of small car drivers. Thus, in an environment where the coexistence of different media is often disorderly and dangerous, proper education remains the only effective tool for accident prevention.
