Women in Pakistan are now realizing the unsafe environment of public transport, which is why they are switching to EV scooters. The freedom that comes with EV scooters also brings a lot of responsibility. Now that women have decided to take their space on roads and demand their rights, it is fairly important to understand the road laws.
The laws are created for everyone to maintain road safety and prevent accidents. However, some are new to using EV scooters and following rules, which is why this guide helps explain smart practices that women can follow to keep themselves safe.
Know the Basic Road Rules
Several women who use EV scooters are not experienced with EV scooters. This is okay. It’s important to know the rules to maintain road safety.
Which Lane to use?
The majority of city streets have 3 lanes. This is a basic summary:
| Lane | Speed | Who It Is For |
| Left Lane | Below 50 km/h | Slow vehicles, rickshaws, and new riders |
| Middle Lane | Around 60 km/h | Normal traffic flow |
| Right Lane | High speed | Overtaking only |
If you are using an EV scooter, then take the left lane and follow the road rules to avoid any trouble.
Use Your Indicators and Mirrors
Use turn or side signals before turning or changing lanes. The indicator switch is located on the left end of the handlebars. Hand signals cannot be used instead. Always check your side mirrors first before changing lanes. You can also look over your shoulder to cover your blind spot.
Responding to Headlight Flashing
If a vehicle behind you flashes its headlights, it is signalling you to move aside. This is the norm on the road. Simply merge left and let them pass. Use the proper safety equipment.
Safety equipment is mandatory. A properly fitted helmet only decreases the risk of serious head injury by as much as 69%. Use it on all 100% of rides.
The following equipment is useful in addition to the helmet:
- Padded gloves to protect your hands in a fall
- Reflective vest to ensure visibility by other drivers, particularly at night
- Sturdy closed shoes or boots to help protect your feet and ankles
The high level of visibility is closely linked to a high degree of protection. Do not compromise on either.
Do a Quick Pre-Ride Check
Take 2 minutes before each ride to perform the following checks:
- Tyre pressure: soft tyres lead to loss of balance and control
- Test both brakes before moving: Brake function
- Never start a long trip with a low battery charge
- Check headlights and indicators to ensure that all are operating
Gain insight into the Reality of Harassment
Road harassment of women is a known phenomenon in Pakistan. Statistics don’t lie.
The emergency helplines received over 82,000 complaints regarding road issues from women in Punjab in the past year. Almost half of these complaints (44.8%) were related to stalking and road bullying. More than 800 serious incidents of harassment have been reported to the police in Lahore. About 2,500 women were secretly filmed on the road in 2025.
Many women refuse to report an incident of sexual harassment because they feel that if it occurs, they have no right to report it. Others don’t say a word to preserve their independence. This silence contributes to making the problem more difficult to solve.
In addition, rescue 1122 statistics show that females only account for 19.4% of the injured in traffic accidents. Women do not cause a problem on the road. They are the ones who suffer the most from them.
Have proper training and a license
Don’t ride without training; it puts you at risk while on the road. Fortunately, there are a few programmes in Pakistan which provide support to female riders.
Islamabad Uraan Initiative
It is a women-only riding school for Uraan Scooty and Motor Riding School operated by the Islamabad Traffic Police. It employs a special training track and female instructors. A certificate is awarded to women who finish the course.
Karachi Awareness Seminars
Karachi traffic police also arranges seminars and helps women understand road safety rules and smart practices. Always take the opportunity of such events.
Keep to the Pink Scooter Rules
Always follow the pink scooter rules if you have the opportunity to get the pink scooter from the Sindh government.
The key rules are:
- Women only. Under no circumstances are male family members allowed to ride these scooters.
- Driving licence to be carried at all times (a valid driving licence).
- Must wear a helmet for all rides.
- The registration plate is to be displayed properly.
Violating these rules will result in your scooter being taken away at the scene by the police.
Conclusion
For the women of Pakistan, an EV scooter provides an invaluable opportunity, the freedom to move on their own terms. But there’s also responsibility that goes with that freedom. Be familiar with road law. Wear your gear. Ride defensively. Don’t be silent when something goes wrong.
