AZE.US
Azerbaijan has introduced new requirements for electric scooter users, including fines for underage riding, intoxicated operation, traffic violations and improper parking.
The measures come amid growing concern over riders speeding through pedestrian areas, carrying passengers on single-person scooters and creating hazards on sidewalks.
Under the new rules, anyone under the age of 14 who operates an electric scooter may be fined 40 manats ($23.53).
A violation that causes minor bodily injury or property damage may result in a fine ranging from 100 manats ($58.82) to 150 manats ($88.24).
Riding an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol carries a fine of 150 manats ($88.24). Those operating a scooter under the influence of narcotic, psychotropic or other intoxicating substances may be fined 200 manats ($117.65).
Leaving an electric scooter or bicycle outside a designated parking area will carry a fine of 10 manats ($5.88).
Rental companies will also face penalties. Providing customers with technically defective scooters may result in fines ranging from 400 manats ($235.29) to 600 manats ($352.94).
If the defect causes an injury or property damage, the company may be fined between 1,000 manats ($588.24) and 1,200 manats ($705.88).
Administrative penalties have also been introduced for blocking bicycle lanes. Individuals may face fines of 80 manats ($47.06) to 100 manats ($58.82), while officials may be fined between 400 manats ($235.29) and 500 manats ($294.12).
Legal entities could face significantly larger penalties, ranging from 3,000 manats ($1,764.71) to 4,000 manats ($2,352.94).
Stopping or parking a motor vehicle in a bicycle lane may also result in a 100-manat ($58.82) fine and two penalty points.
Experts say electric scooters should no longer be treated simply as recreational devices. Riders are considered road users and are expected to follow traffic and public safety rules.
AZE.US