Today is the day! The scooter ban will finally be imposed! No more scooters and mopeds on the bicycle paths in Amsterdam!
Since the 8th of April, scooters in many places in the city have had to go to the regular road and moped drivers have to wear a helmet. In typical Dutch fashion this new rule wasn’t enforced (we even have a word for it, called ‘gedogen‘)
According to the Amsterdam municipality the time to get used to this new rule is now over, they will actually start enforcing this new policy from the 3rd of June. TODAY!
Special teams will enforce scooter and helmet rules in Amsterdam
Special teams in Amsterdam will check whether scooter riders do not ride illegally on the biking paths or without a helmet. These teams will consist of so-called boa’s and motorcyclists who will specifically enforce this new policy. Drivers who are caught can expect an immediate fine.
The fine for driving on a cycle path where this is prohibited and the fine for driving without a helmet are both 95 euros. On top of that, 9 euros in administration costs.
Scooter drivers who think they can avoid a fine by driving away will be fined later on according their license plate. (what? no reckless chasing?)
Since the announcement of the new policy there has been much criticism. Scooter drivers indicated that they did not feel safe among car traffic and motorists complain about the low speed with which scooters drive on the road.
Seen any changes today on the Amsterdam streets? Let us know in the comments!