The Main State Traffic Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) has issued an official appeal to users of electric scooters and other personal mobility devices.
According to information provided by the department to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the appeal emphasizes that irresponsible behavior on the roads can lead to tragic consequences.
"Irresponsibility can lead to tragedy. The increasing use of personal mobility devices, which is characteristic of modern cities, is a positive indicator, especially in our capital. However, failure to comply with road traffic rules while using scooters and similar vehicles is not only unacceptable from a safety perspective but also causes justified dissatisfaction among other road users," the statement reads.
The Main State Traffic Police Department noted that the most common violations committed by scooter users include:
- Two people riding on a single scooter (which increases the risk of loss of balance and accidents);
- Operating at high speeds on pedestrian sidewalks and lanes;
- Disregarding the requirements of traffic lights and road signs;
- Operating at night without warning lights or reflective signals;
- Minors and individuals without driving skills joining road traffic with scooters.
The department stressed that these violations do not only carry administrative liability but also create a real basis for the occurrence of serious traffic accidents. "Regardless of the type of vehicle we operate, we must know and follow the traffic rules. The Main State Traffic Police Department reminds once again that persons operating scooters and other small electric vehicles are road traffic participants and must unconditionally follow traffic rules just like other drivers," the appeal concluded.
In recent years, Azerbaijan has seen a significant surge in the popularity of micro-mobility solutions as part of a broader effort to modernize urban transport and reduce carbon emissions. While the government encourages the use of eco-friendly transportation, the rapid increase in scooter traffic in Baku has necessitated stricter oversight to ensure the safety of both riders and pedestrians. The Ministry of Internal Affairs continues to implement educational and regulatory measures to integrate these modern transport tools safely into the capital's existing infrastructure.