French government pushes for universal helmet rule, faces hurdles extending it to cyclists
Prefectural orders now require helmets for electric scooter riders in several French regions, and the government aims to broaden the rule to cyclists nationwide.
A series of prefectural orders have made helmets mandatory for electric scooter riders in Paris, surrounding departments, Alpes-Maritimes, Yonne and Manche. The government, represented by Deputy Minister for Citizenship Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, is seeking to extend this safety measure to all cyclists throughout France, where helmets are currently only required for children under 12 and outside urban areas for scooters. Officials acknowledge limited political will to pass the measure through Parliament, citing one outlet constraints and the approaching presidential election first round.
Consequently, the administration is working on a national decree, but the timeline remains tight. The push reflects broader concerns about road safety for personal motorised vehicles.
