Remember e-scooters bought abroad are not allowed on Dutch roads, insurers warn

The Dutch association of insurers VNV warn Dutch who bought electric scooters, skateboards and unicycles while vacationing abroad to remember that they are not allowed on public roads in the Netherlands. Also remember to insure them - if you end up in an accident with an uninsured e-scooter, you may have to pay the damages yourself, the VNV warns, NOS reports.

Because small electric scooters, skateboards and unicycles are not approved by the RDW, they are prohibited on public roads in the Netherlands. "All of this is already allowed abroad. That naturally leads to confusion", Oscar van Elferen of the VNV said to NOS. "If you cause a collision with such an e-scooter, that is covered by a single liability insurance policy. But in other cases the guarantee fund comes into play. That is a joint fund of insurers that in such a case pays out to the victim. And they can recover the costs from you."

Drivers of such electric vehicles also risk a fine fo 380 euros if they are caught on Dutch public roads. The vehicle can also be seized. 

The VNV calls for better information about uninsured e-scooters and e-skateboards. "Possession is not prohibited. So you cannot ask customs to take it from the car at the border", Van Elferen said.