Electric scooter drivers cause many accidents. Based on these data, it is planned that electric scooters will also be subject to third-party liability insurance from 2025, just like car and motorcycle owners. Until now, scooter owners could opt for it voluntarily.
Jānis Reirs (New Unity), Chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee of the Saeima, said that the idea was supported because its introduction would allow victims to obtain compensation and not have to pay for damage caused by other people.
The scooter rental company "Bolt" replied in writing to Latvian Television that since the introduction of the service all scooters are insured and this is included in the rental fee.
"This is an effective and proven in practice way to protect not only the scooter driver but also other road users or their property if they are negatively affected by the scooter in any way. We plan to discuss with the relevant authorities the possible impact of the Parliamentary Commission's decision on the operation of Bolt scooters," the company said.
Another rental company, Tuul, said that there is still much uncertainty.
"OCTA is essentially designed to cover third-party damages, but most accidents are one-person accidents, which are not covered by OCTA at all," said Raivis Ozoliņš, Tuul's operations manager. "Most of the accidents are caused by breaking traffic rules, riding in pairs, and driving - this is police data. As it is not clear how the prices will be applied, it is too early to speculate on the impact on rental costs."
As of this year, electric scooters must also be registered.
At the moment, it is not known exactly how much OCTA could cost electric scooter owners, but it is estimated to be up to €50 per year, at least initially.
"A lot will depend on how the rider has done so far," predicted Jānis Abāšins, President of the Latvian Insurers Association.
The amendments also provide for an increase in the limits on claims. However, this is still to be decided by the Parliament in its final reading.
