AZE.US
The rapid expansion of electric scooters in Baku is raising new safety concerns as accident numbers increase, particularly among underage riders.
Originally promoted as a convenient and eco-friendly alternative for short urban trips, e-scooters have become a common sight across the capital.
However, officials and transportation experts warn that enforcement gaps and weak oversight are contributing to a growing number of road incidents.
Azerbaijan’s Human Rights Commissioner, Sabina Aliyeva, recently addressed the issue in an appeal to state authorities, noting that although legislation sets a minimum age of 14 for operating electric scooters, compliance is not effectively enforced.
As a result, children younger than the legal threshold are frequently seen riding scooters on public roads, creating risks both for themselves and for drivers and pedestrians.
Transportation analysts say another complication stems from rental systems. In some cases, minors reportedly access scooters by registering accounts under the names of adults, making accountability more difficult.
“Age restrictions exist for a reason,” experts say, pointing to limited riding experience and reduced risk awareness among younger users. They argue that enforcement mechanisms must be strengthened alongside penalties.
Some specialists suggest expanding authority beyond traffic police to include patrol and municipal officers, allowing for more consistent street-level oversight. Others point to international precedents: several cities worldwide have introduced caps on scooter fleets or tightened operational zones after initial surges in accidents.
According to the Baku City State Traffic Police Department, one fatal accident involving a small electric vehicle was officially recorded in the capital last year. A 23-year-old man died after being struck by a Mercedes at the intersection of Rashid Behbudov and Dilara Aliyeva streets.
While scooter usage continues to grow as part of urban mobility trends, policymakers now face a balancing act between innovation and public safety. Without stricter supervision and clearer accountability, experts warn that accident rates could continue to climb.