E‑scooters, also known as e‑trottinetts, are classified in Switzerland as light motorized bicycles in the slow-traffic category and have the following characteristics:
Other electric scooters – such as those with seats, license plates or speeds of up to 45 km/h – do not fall into this category and must be registered.
This article focuses solely on e-scooters in the slow-traffic category.
The legal classification of your e‑scooter determines where you are allowed to ride, which traffic rules apply to you, and what technical equipment is required. At the same time, it specifies how your scooter can be insured and which types of damage are covered by liability or household contents insurance. Here's how to tell if you're financially protected in the event of an emergency.
Riding on sidewalks and in pedestrian zones is not permitted – unless signs expressly state that they can be used by bicycles and e‑scooters. The following applies, as a result:
Riding an e‑scooter is fun, but please always ride safely and follow the rules. To ensure that you always ride in compliance with the law, we have summarized the most important rules in Switzerland for you:
Speed
E‑scooters may travel at a maximum speed of 20 km/h.
At least 14 years old with a driver's license
For one person only
E‑scooters are approved for use by only one person. Passengers, such as children or other adults, are not permitted.
Helmet requirement
A helmet is not required, but it is highly recommended. In the event of an accident, it protects against serious head injuries.
Alcohol and e‑scooters
The same blood alcohol limits that apply to driving a car also apply to e‑scooters:
Remember: Even on an e‑scooter, you are part of the traffic. Therefore, always drive sober, and if you have been drinking, it's better to take public transportation or a taxi.
In order for your e‑scooter to be approved for use on public roads in Switzerland, it must meet the following minimum requirements:
Required equipment
Because e‑scooters are legally classified as light motorcycles (similar to slow e‑bikes), they do not require a vignette or a license plate.
Recommended for greater safety
To ensure you are financially protected in the event of a loss, two types of insurance play a key role:
Theft at home: If it is stolen from your apartment, basement or garage – for example, during a burglary – it is then covered by theft insurance.
Simple theft outside the home: If your policy includes the "Simple theft outside the home" supplement, theft – for example, outside a train station or in front of stores – is generally covered up to CHF 2,000 (with a deductible of CHF 200, unless otherwise specified).
With a few simple but very effective measures, you can significantly improve your e‑scooter's protection against theft:
These measures will significantly reduce the risk of theft – and ensure that you have all the important information at your fingertips if anything happens.
With professional support from
Senior Product Manager for Household & Retail
As a senior product manager for Household & Retail at Zurich, he develops innovative insurance solutions and contributes his expertise to the design of products for private customers.
