Ditch Crowded Public Transport: Master Safe Cycling and Scootering for Your Daily Commute

Fed up with packed trains and ignored social distancing? As restrictions ease and warmer weather arrives, switch to biking or scootering for a safer, healthier commute. Follow these expert safety rules to navigate city streets confidently.

Gear Up for Safe Riding

Whether cycling or scootering, prioritize your safety and comfort with these essentials, even for occasional rides:

• Helmet: Mandatory for e-bikes up to 45 km/h. Choose one meeting European standard EN 1078—snug fit (53-60 cm), covering forehead, temples, sides, back, and top, with robust shock absorbers.
• Comfortable clothing suited to conditions.
• Yellow vest for night rides outside urban areas.
• Front and rear reflectors.
• Rain gear (cape, poncho, glasses).
• Bell.
• Front and rear lights.
• Anti-theft lock.
• Basket or backpack.
• Hand pump, spare inner tube, and patches for punctures.

Dress for the weather—gloves and neck warmers in winter enhance comfort.

Before every ride, perform a quick safety check:

• Verify brakes are adjusted and pads in good condition.
• Ensure chain is lubricated.
• Confirm tires are properly inflated.
• Service your bike annually—DIY or at a professional shop.

Secure Proper Insurance Coverage

Civil liability insurance is essential to cover damages to others in accidents. Consider personal injury protection too. MaPrévoyance Accident provides coverage for total or partial permanent incapacity from transit accidents[1].

Adopt Protective Riding Habits

Urban cycling or scootering carries risks—minimize them with these proven practices:

• Use dedicated cycle lanes.
• Avoid headphones to stay alert.
• Signal turns with hand gestures.
• Never pass on the right.
• Stay aware of surrounding vehicles (cars, buses, trams, etc.).

Where to Ride: Bike vs. Scooter Rules

Bikes (e-bikes included) are vehicles—use roadways or cycle paths. Sidewalks are off-limits unless walking the bike. Violations like improper parking or phone use incur fines.

Electric scooters: Stick to cycle paths or roads ≤50 km/h. No sidewalks. Since July 1, 2020, require brakes, buzzer, lights, and reflectors. Non-motorized scooters follow pedestrian rules: sidewalks okay, obey pedestrian signals, use crossings within 50m, max 6 km/h.

Top Apps for Smarter Rides

Enhance your trips with these trusted apps:

• Geovelo: Personalized routes by skill, speed, and difficulty.
• SunRisk: UV index alerts, forecasts, and protection tips via geolocation.
• Strava: Track rides with maps, analysis, and route creation.
• MapMyRide: Custom training plans and coaching.
• Fleet: Locate and rent bikes/scooters instantly.

Ready to bike or scooter safely? Equip properly, even for short trips.

[1] Mutuelle Mieux-Etre pays disability capital only if rate ≥25%.