Mandates for Cycling Accessories: Advocacy Group Pushes for Compulsory Helmet Use in Pedelec Riding - Compulsory helmet usage for pedelecs advocated by association due to increase in related accidents
In Germany, the use of helmets on e-bikes is a topic of ongoing debate. This is due, in part, to the classification of e-bikes as either bicycles or small motorcycles, a distinction that determines helmet mandates.
According to Frank Flake, chairman of the German Professional Association for Rescue Services, based in Osnabrueck, Germany, e-bike accidents often result in severe head injuries. This association, which represents rescue professionals in the country, is critical of the current situation, where helmets are mandatory for speed pedelecs (e-bikes capable of speeds up to 45 km/h) but not for regular e-bikes (pedelecs) with a maximum speed of 25 km/h.
Speed pedelecs are classified similarly to mopeds/small motorcycles, subject to stricter regulations including helmet use and mandatory insurance. On the other hand, regular pedelecs function essentially as bicycles with electric assistance and are legally treated as bicycles, where helmet use is not compulsory though advisable.
The approach balances safety with practicality and legal classification. Since pedelecs do not require licenses or insurance and travel at speeds comparable to traditional bicycles, imposing helmet mandates could be seen as a regulatory burden and might reduce adoption and usage. Instead, the German and EU framework focuses mandates on higher-speed, higher-risk vehicles (speed pedelecs).
However, the association continues to advocate for a helmet mandate for e-bikes, arguing that helmets should be required for all e-bikes that are assisted by a motor when pedaling. They believe that this would help reduce the number of accidents and injuries.
Unfortunately, the current situation is not yet the norm in Germany. While almost every cyclist in Switzerland wears a helmet, regardless of age, this is not yet the case in Germany. The association has expressed concern over the behaviour of bystanders at accidents, with people often getting out to take photos with their phones, sometimes even sharing accident victims on social media platforms like Facebook before they are in the hospital. Those who engage in such behaviour can expect to be reported and face consequences, Flake said.
In summary, the legal framework for e-bike helmet mandates in Germany is designed to target helmet mandates where accident severity and vehicle speed justify higher safety requirements. The German Professional Association for Rescue Services continues to advocate for a helmet mandate for e-bikes, hoping to make Germany's roads safer for all cyclists.
| E-Bike Type | Max Speed | Legal Classification | Helmet Mandate | Additional Notes | |-----------------------|-----------------|----------------------------|------------------------|---------------------------------------------| | Pedelec | 25 km/h | Bicycle | No (recommended only) | No license or insurance required | | Speed pedelec (S-Pedelec) | 45 km/h | Small motorcycle/moped | Yes | Requires AM license, insurance, helmet |
- In light of the high number of severe head injuries from e-bike accidents and the association's call for increased safety, it's proposed that the community policy in Germany should consider extending the helmet mandate to all e-bikes, not just speed pedelecs, to potentially reduce accidents and injuries.
- Amidst concerns over careless behavior at accident sites, such as taking photos or sharing accident victims on social media platforms, an enhanced general-news and crime-and-justice awareness is suggested in Germany to emphasize the importance of responsible bystander behavior and promote a safer community for all.
