TRNC Police Confiscates 27 Electric Scooters

During routine traffic checks in Northern Cyprus, the police confiscated 27 electric scooters found to be in violation of regulations. Legal measures were taken against the riders.

The police reminded the public that amendments to the Vehicle and Road Traffic Rules regarding the use of electric scooters on public roads came into effect after being published in the "Official Gazette" on October 26, 2022.

Under the new regulations, an electric scooter is defined as one that has a maximum speed of 30 km/h, a power output of up to 351 W, equipped with wheels, a braking mechanism, a footrest, a handlebar made of non-slip material, and a vertical steering system. The scooter must also have a white light on the front, which must illuminate a distance of at least 20 meters.

Motorcycles, motorbikes, and motorized tricycles with a battery power exceeding 351 W and a speed over 30 km/h must be registered according to the vehicle class specified by law and the driver's license class (J, H1, H2, H).

It was noted that, as a result of the routine traffic checks conducted by police units across the country, many traffic rules were violated by the riders, which was reflected in the outcome of the checks.

• In addition to the planned traffic checks conducted by the General Directorate of Police from November 11 to 17, aimed at preventing road crimes and accidents, 27 electric scooters were confiscated, and legal actions were initiated against the riders, according to a police statement.

Rules for Using Electric Scooters in Northern Cyprus:

• Electric scooters cannot be used by individuals under 18 years of age, and they are not allowed on highways or roads with speed limits over 50 km/h.
• If a bike lane is available, riders must use it. If there is no bike lane, they can ride on the road, provided it is on the left side and does not obstruct traffic safety.
• Only the rider is permitted; carrying passengers is prohibited.
• Carrying cargo is not allowed, except for items that can be carried on the back.
• Riding side by side with other scooters on a vehicle road is forbidden.
• Riding on sidewalks is strictly prohibited.
• It is illegal to attach oneself to another vehicle or hold onto it while riding a scooter.
• The handlebar must be gripped with both hands.
• Riding a scooter with one hand is not allowed.

Compliance checks for electric scooter regulations in Northern Cyprus will continue.