Two-wheelers relentlessly hit the pedestrian crossing on Immelmannstrasse, causing damage to the sign.
E-Scooters and Bike Safety Concerns on Immelmannstraße, Mönchengladbach
The bustling streets of Mönchengladbach, Germany, have seen a surge in the use of e-scooters and bicycles over the past few years, but this increased mobility has come with its fair share of challenges. A particular hotspot for concerns is the sidewalk on Immelmannstraße, where residents have reported numerous incidents of close calls and near misses.
Resident Josef Zender recently had a brush with danger when a passing cyclist knocked him at his front door. Similar incidents have been experienced by others in the area for years, with over 200 cyclists, e-bikers, and scooter riders passing by daily. In fact, there has been an alarming increase in e-scooter accidents, with almost as many accidents in the first half of 2025 as in the entire year of 2022.
The local police have taken notice of the situation and have increased patrols in the area to enforce traffic laws related to e-scooters and bicycles on sidewalks. Offenders can receive fines for riding on sidewalks where prohibited. The city has also acknowledged the "complaint hotline of Immelmannstraße" and is considering taking on the planting of large plant pots, with residents also willing to do it with official approval.
In response to the growing concerns, the city is considering several measures to improve safety on Immelmannstraße. One proposal under consideration is the creation of dedicated bike and scooter lanes adjacent to the sidewalk, providing riders with a safe, designated space and reducing conflicts with pedestrians. Another idea is implementing speed limits specifically for e-scooters on sidewalks or in pedestrian zones, potentially enforced by technological means.
The city is also discussing raising fines or introducing stricter penalties for repeat offenders to curb reckless riding. Additionally, exploratory conversations are taking place about geofencing measures by scooter rental companies that can limit speed or disable scooters in restricted areas like sidewalks.
In August 2020, the city adapted the sidewalk section of Immelmannstraße several times, but removed U-turn barriers due to lack of barrier-free accessibility. Residents suggest using large plant pots in front of houses to make the first one and a half meters safer, while a second protective barrier, designed to be accessible for wheelchair users, is a preferred solution among residents.
The city administration of Mönchengladbach or the local Verkehrsbehörde (transport authority) could provide more up-to-date information on the specific measures being taken to address the issue. If you live or frequently pass through Immelmannstraße, local community groups or neighborhood councils might also be raising these concerns with authorities, sometimes prompting quicker interventions.
In the meantime, residents remain eager for a quick solution to prevent serious injuries on the sidewalk. The city is encouraging residents to report reckless behavior through local apps or police hotlines, aiding enforcement efforts. As the city works towards finding a lasting solution, the hope is that the racetrack-like nature of the sidewalk will soon give way to a safer, more enjoyable environment for all.
Sentence 1: The increased popularity of sports like e-scootering on Immelmannstraße has resulted in several accidents, causing concerns about safety.
Sentence 2: Despite the potential dangerous instances linked with sports activities such as e-scootering, the city is exploring solutions like dedicated lanes and speed limits to ensure a safer environment for both riders and pedestrians.
