ZAGREB, 22 Aug (Hina) - The Croatian Automobile Club (HAK) has launched a nationwide programme to promote safer use of electric scooters, after nearly 400 accidents were recorded last year, leaving two people dead and more than 300 injured.

HAK president Ivo Bikić said scooters had become a daily means of transport but also a growing safety concern. "A scooter is not a toy but a vehicle that requires responsibility," he warned.

The training combines lectures, simulators and practice tracks to teach safe riding. Children and young people are a priority group, as police say many of last year’s accidents involved under-14s, who are not legally allowed to ride scooters.

The initiative aims to build a culture of road safety and raise awareness that rules apply equally to all road users: drivers, cyclists and scooter riders. HAK plans to expand the programme to more cities next year, along with school campaigns and community partnerships.