Lawmakers in Bahrain are developing new regulations to control the purchase and licensing of electric scooters, according to MP Abdulwahid Qarata. These proposed measures aim to address safety concerns regarding the growing use of the vehicles across the country. Addressing the role of families in managing this issue, MP Abdulwahid Qarata stated, "Parents are the first line of defence in this matter." He further explained the legislative intent behind the initiative, noting, "The laws were not made to curb freedom, but to save lives and keep people safe." The parliament continues to discuss the draft regulations, which focus on formalizing the ownership and operational requirements for scooter users to ensure public safety.
Safety Gear and Usage Rules
Proposed regulations mandate that electric scooter operators wear helmets and appropriate safety equipment while riding. These requirements aim to reduce head injuries and ensure better visibility for all road users.
Under the legislative proposal, operating electric scooters on narrow residential streets or major roads is strictly prohibited to minimize traffic hazards. The draft rules also address the speed and placement of electric motorcycles. These vehicles are permitted for use on internal roads, provided they do not exceed a maximum speed of 25km/h. However, the legislation bars these motorcycles from traveling on external roads entirely. Parliament members intend for these specific operational restrictions to organize traffic flow and protect pedestrians in densely populated areas.
Age Restrictions and Parental Responsibility
Children under 16 years of age must be under adult supervision when riding electric scooters according to the legislative proposal currently before the Bahraini Parliament. This age-based mandate seeks to limit the risks associated with minors operating motorized vehicles in public spaces. By requiring direct oversight from a guardian, lawmakers aim to ensure that younger riders adhere to safety protocols while navigating designated areas. The regulation functions as a preventative measure to mitigate potential accidents involving inexperienced users. Parliament continues to deliberate on these specific age requirements as part of the broader framework to standardize electric scooter operations across the country. Such measures reflect a shift toward stricter accountability for those responsible for the safety of minors using these personal mobility devices.
Fines and Legal Consequences
Violations of the proposed traffic regulations regarding electric scooters will carry fines ranging from BD100 to BD500. Beyond monetary penalties, the draft legislation stipulates that offenders breaking these rules may face jail terms of up to six months.
Authorities have also included provisions for the seizure of mobility devices. Vehicles involved in rule violations can be impounded for a period of 60 days. These enforcement measures are intended to ensure compliance with the new safety framework currently under review by the Bahraini Parliament.
To deter recurring safety infractions, the proposal includes a clause regarding repeat offenses. Penalties for traffic rule violations can be doubled for any individual who commits a subsequent breach within one year of a court ruling. Parliament members are currently deliberating these specific legal consequences as part of the broader legislative package to regulate electric scooter use across the country.
