Hoverboards: prohibited on public roads, often not insured

Hoverboards, you see them more and more. Nobody is surprised when someone rides a hoverboard on public roads either. But the use of a hoverboard on public roads is still prohibited. And so damage caused by a hoverboard is in many cases not insured.

What is a hoverboard?

A hoverboard is a motorized skateboard that resembles a segway without a handlebar. A less common name for a hoverboard is 'Smart Balance Board'. Wikipedia defines the term 'hoverboard' as follows: " A hoverboard is a single-person vehicle powered by electric motors. It is a two-piece board with a built-in battery and wheels on either side. The device has no steering wheel; steering is done by moving weight and manipulating the plank with your feet. " The maximum speed is between 10 and 15 kilometers per hour but can be up to 20 kilometers per hour. Hoverboards cost between $ 200 and $ 600. 

Hoverboards and Dutch law

It is legally prohibited to drive a hoverboard on public roads. You are also not allowed to ride on the sidewalk with a hoverboard. Because the (Hoverboards UK)hoverboard has no steering wheel and no seat, it does not fall under any category of vehicles approved for road use. In that respect, there is an important difference between a hoverboard and an electric scooter, electric scooter, or Segway. Segways are designated by the Dutch government as 'special moped'. As a result, special rules apply to a Segway. For example, a Segway must be insured and provided with an 'insurance label'. What applies to a hoverboard, also applies to electric skateboards and air wheels.

The risks of using a hoverboard on public roads

Under Dutch law, a hoverboard is a prohibited motorized vehicle without a steering wheel. Hoverboards are often 'tolerated'. But anyone who uses a hoverboard on public roads runs significant risks. That starts with the risk of a fine for not being able to show an insurance certificate or a fine for driving around uninsured. Because a hoverboard is an illegal means of transport, the police have the authority to confiscate the device. This happens a few dozen times a year.

Hoverboards and your insurance

Before getting on a hoverboard or getting your kids on a hoverboard, it's a good idea to check with your insurance advisor to make sure you're insured. The greatest importance is not with the hull cover for the hoverboard, but with the liability cover. Because suppose you or your child causes damage to an expensive car. Not to mention the injury to the rider of the hoverboard or third parties. There are big differences in the way insurers deal with hoverboards. Some of the insurers (including ASR, SNS, and Ohra) do not offer any liability cover for hoverboards(hoverboard repair). Other insurers provide coverage for hoverboards that cannot go faster than 6 (Reaal) or 16 kilometers per hour (ABN AMRO).