E-scooter helmets could become mandatory under new law

Helmets will soon become mandatory for e-scooter riders under proposed legislation announced by Transport Minister Chris Bonett on Thursday.

Bonett said he will present the proposal to Cabinet next week, seeking to make helmet use compulsory for anyone licensed to ride an e-scooter.

The announcement follows an e-scooter accident on Tuesday evening that left a 15-year-old girl seriously injured.

According to police, the girl lost control of the e-scooter and overturned on Mdina Road. She was taken to Mater Dei Hospital, where she was certified as having sustained serious injuries.

Under existing regulations, e-scooter riders must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid driving licence. Transport Malta currently recommends wearing a helmet, although it is not a legal requirement.

“We saw what happened,” Bonett said. “We always encouraged safety, but the time has come for us to go a step further.”

The minister described the proposed legislation as an important step towards improving safety for people using alternative modes of transport, particularly e-scooters.

The government previously banned rental e-scooters in March 2024 following widespread complaints over reckless riding and public safety concerns. Privately owned e-scooters remain permitted on Maltese roads, provided they are registered, insured and comply with existing regulations.