Fines imposed on children for operating electric scooters have tripled in magnitude
In Russia, the fines for youngsters zipping around on electric scooters have experienced a significant hike, going from 10,000 to a hefty 30,000 rubles. That's according to Russian newspaper, Izvestia.
Electric scooter rental companies like Whoosh and Yandex Go have already upped their game in terms of fines for underage riders. However, it's important to note that in Moscow, the fine escalates to a whopping 100,000 rubles.
As per service terms, Whoosh scooters are for individuals aged 16 and above, while Yandex Go and its counterpart, Yandex Go, require users to be 18 or older. Surprisingly, these conditions are stricter than the traffic rules, which grant the use of individual mobility devices from the age of 14.
Let's take a quick look at these players dominating the electric scooter sharing scene in Russia:
- Whoosh: Although local regulations in some cities may vary, Whoosh generally sets its minimum age limit at 16 years.[1]
- MTS Yrent: This company doesn't allow minors to access its scooters, implying an age requirement of 18 or more.[1]
- Yandex Go: Similar to MTS Yrent, Yandex Go appears to have a minimum age limit of 18.[1]
Regarding other operators in the market, there's a lack of specific information. Nonetheless, Whoosh, MTS Yrent, and Yandex Go are among the big players ruling the electric scooter sharing industry in Russia.
- The fine for underage riders using electric scooters from companies like Whoosh, MTS Yrent, and Yandex Go not only includes the initial increase but also escalates significantly in Moscow, reaching 100,000 rubles.
- Despite the traffic rules in Russia granting the use of individual mobility devices from the age of 14, electric scooter rental companies like Whoosh, MTS Yrent, and Yandex Go have stricter age requirements, with minimum ages set at 16 and 18 years old.
