Mandatory insurance for electric scooters and other small vehicles has been in effect for over a year, with approximately 38,200 individuals and companies obtaining coverage since April of last year, including 5,200 new policies this year.
The impact of these vehicles on public safety has become evident through insurance claims. Last year saw 331 insurance claims totaling 16 million Czech crowns, while this year has already recorded 133 claims amounting to 5.1 million crowns. Even uninsured vehicles have caused significant damages, with dozens of incidents resulting in claims exceeding 1.4 million crowns.
Insurance coverage specifically addresses damages caused to third parties, not to the riders or scooter owners themselves. Annual premiums range from 250 to 1,500 Czech crowns.
The insurance requirement applies to vehicles capable of speeds over 25 kilometers per hour, or those exceeding 14 kilometers per hour while weighing more than 25 kilograms. This regulation has influenced the market, with major retailers reducing their offerings of faster models to simplify purchases for consumers.
Some specialized e-shops, however, continue to focus on higher-speed models, with current market listings showing 418 models under 25 km/h and 251 faster options. Notably, some models can reach speeds up to 120 kilometers per hour, classifying them as motor vehicles and restricting their use on bike paths.