By Ignas Andriukevičius, LRT RADIO, LRT.lt.

All riders of electric micromobility vehicles in Lithuania will be required to wear helmets starting next year, under new safety rules aimed at reducing serious injuries. Rental companies will be obligated to provide helmets to customers.

Police data show more than 2,800 violations involving electric scooters and other micromobility vehicles were recorded last year, while 180 riders or passengers were injured. Doctors and road safety experts say helmets are not a formality but a critical measure that can significantly reduce the risk of severe head and facial injuries.

Dalius Matkevičius, head of the Oral, Facial and Jaw Surgery Centre at Vilnius’ Žalgiris Clinic, said the number of injuries has declined this year but remains a concern. Since the beginning of the year, doctors have treated about 200 scooter-related cases, including both hospitalised and outpatient patients, he said.

“Compared with the so-called scooter pandemic of 2023, the situation has stabilised and is now relatively good,” Matkevičius said. Still, he warned that serious trauma remains common.

Helmet choice also matters, experts say. Vytautas Kaupas, a former professional cyclist and co-owner of bicycle shop Velonova, said scooter helmets differ from bicycle helmets in construction and protection.

Read more: LRT.LT