If you own an electric scooter in Sweden, brace yourself for a change. Effective December 23, 2023, a significant amendment to the traffic damage law now requires the majority of electric scooters to be insured when utilized in traffic.
This alteration places the responsibility squarely on the vehicle owner, who must secure the necessary insurance. Moreover, it’s crucial to note that the insurance certificate must be readily available at all times when the vehicle is in use on the road.
The scope of this law extends to “electric vehicles without pedal or crank mechanisms” surpassing speeds of 20 kilometers per hour. However, it also encompasses vehicles moving faster than 14 kilometers per hour, given that the vehicle weighs more than 25 kilograms. This broad category includes electric scooters, e-scooters, and even the so-called fatbikes.
A failure to produce a traffic insurance certificate during a routine police check constitutes a violation of the traffic damage law, potentially leading to fines. While the exact fine amount is not provided, Filip Annas, spokesperson for the South Police Region, draws a comparison to class two mopeds, suggesting it could be around 500 kronor.
Understanding Traffic Insurance
Traffic insurance is a mandatory safeguard for vehicle owners, offering compensation in case of accidents resulting in injuries to drivers, passengers, or others involved. Additionally, it covers damages to third-party property, excluding damages to the insured vehicle itself.*Source: Traffic Insurance Association
