Concerns grow over electric scooter safety in Cyprus

The increasing use of electric scooters on Cypriot roads has led to a significant public safety crisis, with authorities reporting two deaths and 15 injuries, including six serious cases, so far in 2026. The lack of dedicated infrastructure and widespread traffic violations have prompted intense debate regarding the regulation of micromobility devices.

In April 2026, the Cypriot Parliament passed legislation to tighten control over electric scooters. The new rules prohibit their use on roads with speed limits exceeding 30 kilometers per hour and mandate that users be at least 17 years old and wear helmets. Despite these measures, enforcement remains a point of contention. Alekos Tryfonidis, who previously advocated for a total ban on scooters, argued that the current legal framework is insufficient without designated lanes and proper oversight. Sotiris Ioannou, President of the Parliamentary Committee on Transport, emphasized that the unregulated movement of these devices continues to pose fatal risks to both riders and motorists.

Moving forward, officials stress the urgent need for stricter implementation of existing laws to curb dangerous behaviors on the road. The ongoing debate highlights the friction between modern urban transit trends and traditional road infrastructure designed primarily for cars.