Leader of the Fidesz–KDNP faction in Budapest Alexandra Szentkirályi has written to the Minister of Construction and Transport János Lázár, calling for urgent regulatory measures to address the growing problems associated with e-scooters and cycling infrastructure in the capital. The initiative aims to improve road safety by introducing clear rules for e-scooter usage and enhancing cycling conditions without compromising the needs of other road users.
In a social media statement, Szentkirályi stressed the need to eliminate the ‘scooter chaos’ in Budapest and make cycling safer. She confirmed that Budapest Fidesz intends to submit proposals for the upcoming revision of Hungary’s Highway Code (KRESZ), focusing on the regulation of e-scooter speed limits and parking.
‘We must not allow Budapest to become a city of scattered e-scooters and reckless tourist riders,’ she stated.
The letter highlights that the rapid spread and popularity of e-mobility devices, particularly e-scooters, have introduced significant safety risks and conflict points in urban transport. The current Highway Code does not yet provide specific regulations for motorized scooters, making their legal status unclear. Szentkirályi has, therefore, urged the government to define the rules for their use, including a fixed maximum speed limit.
A key concern outlined in the letter is the improper parking of shared e-scooters, which disrupts pedestrians and other road users. The document calls for new regulations that would empower local governments to implement infrastructure and technical solutions to manage e-scooter storage more effectively.
János Lázár responded to the post in a comment saying that the ministry received the request and they are on the case.
Beyond e-scooter issues, Fidesz also emphasized the need for well-planned cycling infrastructure. According to the party, some of Budapest’s bike lanes, particularly those created by reducing road space for cars, pose safety hazards rather than improving cycling conditions.
‘Certain bike lanes cut out from the road do not guarantee the expected level of safety. They lower the overall quality of transport infrastructure and give cyclists a false sense of security,’ the statement reads.
The letter also raises concerns about the use of plastic bollards to separate bike lanes, arguing that they provide little protection against multi-tonne vehicles.
To address these concerns, Fidesz has urged the minister to consider mandatory physical separation for bike lanes, along with clear technical standards and safety guarantees in the new regulations. The party also recommends a comprehensive safety review and official inspections of existing bike lanes.
Szentkirályi reinforced these points in a video shared on Facebook, stating that while e-scooters could serve as a viable transport alternative, the current situation is chaotic and dangerous. She added that potholes on Budapest’s roads make scooter use even riskier, underscoring the need for updated regulations.
‘Enough of the scattered scooters and reckless e-scooter tourists!’ she concluded.
The proposed changes, if implemented, could significantly reshape urban mobility in Budapest by ensuring that e-scooters and bicycles coexist safely with other forms of transport.
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