Electric scooters have become a popular mode of transport across Belgium, but what happens when they exceed legal speed limits? On 2025-05-02 18:09:00, police in Waregem caught a young man riding an electric scooter that was modified to reach speeds up to 102 km/h, far above the legal maximum of 25 km/h.
- Police caught man riding overpowered electric scooter
- Scooter reached speeds up to 102 km/h
- Legal speed limit for scooters is 25 km/h
- Man unaware of scooter's high speed
- Bought scooter secondhand for longer travel
- Judge requested speed limiter installation on scooter
The rider, a man in his twenties, claimed he was unaware of the scooter’s true speed. He had purchased the scooter secondhand to cover longer distances, especially since he is not allowed to drive a car due to poor eyesight. The court showed understanding but insisted he limit the scooter’s speed to the legal 25 km/h.
This incident raises important questions about electric scooter regulations and safety in Belgium. How well do riders understand the capabilities of their devices? And what responsibilities do they have to ensure compliance with the law?
Why do some riders unknowingly exceed speed limits on electric scooters? This case shows that:
- Secondhand purchases can come with hidden modifications.
- Riders may lack clear information about their scooter’s capabilities.
- Regulators and courts emphasize safety but also consider individual circumstances.
- Proper speed limiting is essential to comply with Belgian law and protect public safety.
As electric scooters become more widespread, it’s crucial for riders to stay informed and ensure their devices meet legal standards. Will awareness campaigns and tighter controls reduce risky behaviour on Belgian roads? Only time will tell.
