One of the most famous Italian scooter models was made by a helicopter engineer. A trademark of this vehicle is the free passage between the saddle and the handlebars. Even today, most scooters have a similar design. And they still enjoy great popularity. Because especially in the city it is quite convenient to drive a scooter. You are traveling comfortably and yet faster than by bicycle. To ensure that the driving experience doesn't end in disaster, it's important to heed a rule or two – for your own safety's sake.
FAQ: Riding a scooter
Which driving license do I need to drive a scooter?
Most scooters are considered mopeds. The engine capacity of these small motorcycles is not more than 50 cc, and the power is not more than 4 kW. And they cannot go faster than 45 mph due to their design. For such scooters you need at least the driving license class AM.
What happens if I get caught riding a scooter without a license?
If you drive a scooter without a valid driver's license, you commit a criminal offense. In this case, the judge will sentence you to a fine or imprisonment for a maximum of one year.
What should I pay particular attention to when riding a scooter??
Scooter riders are very quickly overlooked. Therefore, drive with extra foresight and do not insist on the right of way in dicey situations. We have summarized further tips and traffic rules here.
A short fact sheet about the moped and the required driving license
Motor scooters are mopeds with a maximum engine capacity of 50 cc. You will reach a maximum speed of 45 km/h. This is why you are not allowed to ride a scooter on the highway, where only vehicles with a design speed limit of 60 km/h are permitted.
For this, the small vehicles are well suited for city traffic – and for very young people. Because the required driver's license of the class AM they may already from the 15. acquire an insurance license plate as proof of age. And car drivers can also drive a scooter with a class B passenger car driver's license.
Motor scooters, i.e. mopeds, sometimes look confusingly similar to light motorcycles. The latter have a displacement of no more than 125 cc and are much more powerful. For them, other regulations and a different driving license (class A1) apply.
Before riding a scooter, pay attention to: Operating license, insurance, helmet obligation
Before you ride a scooter in public traffic, you need:
- An operating permit (ABE)
- an insurance license plate as proof of the compulsory liability insurance
A general inspection (TuV) is not normally required for mopeds, unless you have had modifications made to the vehicle that require registration, e.g. B. a restriction of the maximum speed to 45 km/h.
Helmets are compulsory on scooters, just as they are on motorcycles. Protective helmets tested in accordance with the EU standard and bearing an ECE symbol in the lining or on the chin strap are recommended for this purpose. Even if you "only" ride a scooter in the city, you should think about buying a closed full-face helmet. It protects – unlike the jet helmets popular with scooter riders – the entire head and face.
It is not allowed to ride a scooter with a bicycle helmet, let alone without a helmet at all. Firefighter or work helmets are also not permitted. You can also learn more about this in this video:
- Car drivers very quickly overlook scooter riders due to their narrow appearance. Therefore, keep an eye on all cars, even those beside the road. Be especially vigilant at intersections, when turning and near vehicles parking in and out – and rather give up the right of way. You may be in the right, but you will still suffer the greater damage in the event of an accident.
- When you ride a scooter, always wear lights and light-colored clothing. The same principle applies in road traffic as on the catwalk: "See and be seen." But on the road, it can save your life.
- Only drive fast enough to be able to control the scooter at all times – in all road conditions and in all weathers.
- Indicate any lane change, overtaking or turning in a timely manner. Check regularly that all lights and indicators are working properly.
- Keep sufficient distance from the vehicle in front and increase this distance on poor or wet roads. Do not ride too far to the right on the side of the road. Because if you are driving a scooter, you must also keep a sufficient distance to the right.
Fines and other sanctions for misdemeanors
Regardless of the above tips, if you ride a scooter, you must abide by the same rules as any other road user.
In particular, you should not ride your scooter without a helmet. Although the catalog of fines only provides for a warning fine of 15 euros for this, the head injuries that you can carry in the event of an accident weigh far more heavily.