New Czech law set to make liability insurance compulsory for e-scooters

Riders of electric scooters, Segways, and golf carts will likely need to have compulsory liability insurance from the end of this year, according to the Czech government’s plans. Minister of Finance Zbyněk Stanjura said at a Wednesday press conference that the new would redefine the term “vehicle,” therefore expanding the requirements for insurance. Crucially, the operator (driver) of the vehicle – rather than the owner – will pay for the liability insurance. 

This obligation will apply to all motor vehicles with a design speed of more than 25 kilometers per hour (km/h), and to motor vehicles with a design speed of between 14 km/h and 24 km/h that weigh more than 25 kilograms. E-bikes will be exempt from the new law because their primary energy source is physical pedaling rather than a motor, iRozhlas notes. This type of insurance is expected to cost around CZK 500 per year.

At present, penalties for being without liability insurance can cost up to CZK 4,000. As electric scooters and similar vehicles are relatively light, it is safe to assume that the penalty would range between CZK 5,000 and CZK 10,000.

The draft law also dismantles the "green card" (certificates displaying the validity of compulsory insurance for a specific car) for proving paid liability insurance in the Czech Republic. The rationale behind this change lies in the digital evolution of insurance control systems. Instead, the green card will assume the role of an international proof of insurance payment when traveling abroad.

Moreover, the proposed law advocates for increased minimum insurance benefit limits for injuries, deaths, or property damage. These limits are set to rise from the present CZK 25 million to CZK 50 million, applicable per affected individual for personal injuries or deaths, and per incident for property damages.

The Ministry of Finance, which is behind the bill, advocates for its enforcement from Dec. 23. This strategic timing corresponds with the deadline for incorporating an EU insurance directive into the legal frameworks of member states. With these reforms, the Czech Republic anticipates enhanced coverage and efficiency within its vehicle liability insurance landscape.