Federal Statistical Office: 38 Deaths in E-Scooter Accidents in 2025

Of the 38 fatalities, the majority were the riders of the e-scooters themselves. About 82.4 percent of those involved in accidents had been riding an e-scooter themselves, including 33 of the 38 fatalities. Only one of the 33 killed e-scooter riders had been traveling as a passenger, according to the data.

Who Is Affected?

Of the five others killed in e-scooter accidents, three people were on foot, one was on a bicycle, and one was in a car. These figures show that the risks concern not only the users of the scooters themselves, but also other road users.

5.5 percent of those involved in accidents on an e-scooter had been passengers. Carrying additional persons is not permitted under the Road Traffic Regulations: According to the Straßenverkehrsordnung, e-scooters are intended for only one person.

Rules and Enforcement

The development fits into a debate that has been ongoing for years about the safety of electric scooters in urban traffic. Observers point to rising rental numbers, a frequently younger user profile, and sometimes risky riding behavior, such as under the influence of alcohol or on sidewalks.

The authority noted that these are preliminary police records. A final assessment of the causes and a breakdown by federal state are expected with later publications.

Political Debate

Police and municipalities had announced increased checks in recent months to punish violations of the Road Traffic Regulations. These include riding on sidewalks, carrying additional persons, and riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The figures now presented are likely to further fuel the political discussion about stricter rules for e-scooters. Among the proposals are stricter blood-alcohol limits, a mandatory helmet requirement, and better technical monitoring of rental vehicles.