It has been officially decided that the city of Amsterdam is banning scooters from the cycle paths. This plan has been in the making since 2017, but it seems like it’s finally going to be implemented starting 2019.

The problem with scooters on the cycle paths

As Amsterdam continues flooding with tourists, the city’s cycling paths are also getting increasingly busier. This means that the number of accidents is also rising, and causing concern. In order to ensure traffic safety, the municipality has come up with some new regulations. Hence, the decision was made to move scooters form the bicycle paths onto the road.

At the moment, scooters are allowed to travel at a speed up to 25km/h. However, according to research, 80 percent of scooters in Amsterdam travel above that speed limit. This has caused many accidents to happen involving pedestrians and cyclists. That is why the municipality of Amsterdam is banning scooters from the cycle paths.

Amsterdam’s solution to the scooter problem

As of the 1st of January, other Dutch municipalities and road authorities will be able to implement this and ban scooters from the cycling paths. Once the ban is in place, scooters will have to drive on the road instead. This indicative map shows the cycle paths that will likely be affected by the new measures.

Currently, it is not obligatory to wear a helmet when on a scooter. Often, because of this, drivers suffer serious injury from accidents. For this reason, those on a scooter on the road will need to wear a helmet once the ban is implemented.

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The pros and cons of banning scooters from the cycle paths

According to traffic alderman, Sharon Dijksma, while the measure will bring a positive change, she believes it is also drastic and complicated. People on scooters may have to take different routes than those they are used to. It will also take some time for them to get used to their place on the road.

On the other hand, RAI Association does not support the decision of moving scooters onto the road. According to their association, it has been scientifically proven that traffic safety does not improve when measures like that are taken. In fact, scooter drivers are put in even bigger danger because of this measure.

What is your opinion on this issue? Are you happy that Amsterdam is banning scooters from the cycle paths? Let us know in the comments below!