OSLO, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Norway's government on Monday proposed raising the minimum age for riding electric scooters from 12 to 16, citing a sharp increase in injuries among children and teenagers.

The Ministry of Transport said it had asked the Norwegian Public Roads Administration to submit the proposal for public consultation.

Transport Minister Kamzy Gunaratnam said stronger measures were needed to reduce serious accidents, noting that many people involved in e-scooter crashes were aged between 12 and 16.

An assessment by the roads administration found that the youngest riders had limited traffic knowledge, making it difficult for them to navigate complex situations and interact safely with other road users. Riders aged 14 and 15 were more frequently involved in accidents characterized by high speeds and risky riding.

Gunaratnam said several European countries had already introduced higher minimum ages, while many Norwegian rental companies required users to be at least 15 or 16.

Norway's existing rules include mandatory helmets for riders under 15 and liability insurance requirements. The government is also examining broader helmet requirements and measures targeting illegal e-scooters. ■

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