Quick Start: What You Need to Know
Most people commuting by bike or e-scooter are covered for personal injuries through occupational accident insurance when travelling to and from work.
Occupational accident insurance is not a liability insurance and never covers ‘property damage’, only physical injury
Not every e-bike or e-scooter requires its own insurance policy. However, some faster or heavier motorized vehicles do require separate third-party liability insurance under Belgian law. If you're unsure which category your vehicle falls into, it's worth checking with your insurer or mobility provider.
From 1 September 2026, riders of electric scooters (step in Flemish) capable of speeds above 20 km/h must wear a helmet in Belgium, including Leuven. The helmet must protect the temples and back of the head.
If your employer provides your bike or e-scooter, check what is already covered through your lease contract.
A helmet is one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of serious head injuries, even when it is not legally required.
Get a good raincoat 😊
Why Soft Mobility Is Growing in Leuven
First, what is soft mobility? Soft mobility is about moving from one place to another, usually a short distance, using active or low-impact (electrified) transport instead of driving everywhere by car.
It can include modes of transport such as:
Bikes
E-bikes
E-scooters (e-steps)
Skateboards
Monowheels
Walking
In cities like Leuven, soft mobility has become an increasingly popular way to commute, run errands, travel between campus locations, and explore the city. Many people choose these options because they are often faster in urban areas, more affordable than owning a car, and contribute to healthier and more sustainable communities.
While soft mobility offers many benefits, each mode of transport comes with its own rules, safety considerations, and insurance requirements. Understanding these can help you choose the option that best fits your lifestyle and ensure you're properly protected both on and off your daily commute.
What Is Covered When Commuting to Work?
If you are travelling directly between your home and workplace and have an accident, you are generally protected by your employer's occupational accident insurance.
Occupational Accident Insurance
Covered | Not Covered |
Personal injuries sustained during your commute | Damage to your bicycle or e-scooter, clothing, smartphones, helmets, etc. |
Medical expenses related to covered injuries | Theft of your bicycle or e-scooter |
Compensation according to workplace accident regulations | Third-party liability claims |
Certain loss-of-income protections, depending on circumstances | Roadside assistance |
Coverage details may vary. Always check the specific conditions of your policy.
Many people assume that if an accident happens during their commute, everything is automatically covered. In reality, occupational accident insurance is designed primarily to protect people, not vehicles. This means that if you are injured while travelling to or from work, your medical and injury-related costs may be covered, but damage to your bicycle or e-scooter, theft, roadside assistance, or damage caused to other people are usually covered under different types of insurance.
Whether you use your own bicycle, a leased bike, or a vehicle provided by your employer, it is worth checking exactly what insurance coverage is included and where additional protection may be helpful.
Which Insurance Might You Need?
The right insurance depends on the vehicle you use and how often you use it.
Insurance Overview
Type of Insurance | What It Covers | Who Should Consider It? |
Occupational Accident Insurance | Injuries during work-related commuting | Employers |
Third-Party Liability (Familiale in Flemish) | Damage or injury caused to others | E-scooter and e-bike users, depending on vehicle type |
Bicycle Insurance | Theft, damage, vandalism | Owners of valuable bicycles or e-bikes |
*Comprehensive Mobility Insurance | Combination of theft, damage and assistance | Frequent riders |
Roadside Assistance | Mechanical breakdowns and transport support | E-bike riders and long-distance commuters |
*Comprehensive mobility insurance is helpful if you are a frequent rider or simply like a catch-all solution.
When evaluating insurance, ask yourself:
How expensive is my bike or e-scooter?
Do I use it daily?
Do I park it regularly in public places?
Would I be able to easily replace it if stolen?
New Belgian Helmet Rules for Electric Scooters
Belgium recently introduced new safety requirements for electric scooter users.
As of 1 September 2026, riders of motorized personal mobility devices, including electric scooters, with a maximum design speed exceeding 20 km/h must wear a helmet. The requirement applies based on the scooter's maximum technical capability, not the speed at which you happen to be travelling at a given moment.
When Is Third-Party Liability Insurance Mandatory?
While most of the above information was about optional insurance, for some motorized devices, third-party liability insurance is a legal must-do.
Classifications can be complex, so it's highly recommended to consult your insurer before purchasing or importing one.
Generally speaking, additional liability insurance is required for vehicles that:
Can move autonomously without pedaling.
Exceed legal thresholds for speed and weight.
If you're unsure, consult your insurer or mobility provider.
Tips for Employers
Employers increasingly offer bicycle leasing and alternative mobility benefits. A well-rounded mobility program can include:
Infrastructure
Secure bicycle parking.
Well-lit storage areas.
Charging facilities for e-bikes.
Education
Cycling confidence workshops.
Safe riding and traffic awareness sessions.
Information about Belgian traffic rules.
Communication
Guidance on insurance coverage.
Updates on mobility regulations.
Information for international employees unfamiliar with Belgian cycling culture.
Creating a supportive mobility environment helps employees feel comfortable choosing sustainable transportation options.
Final Thought
Cycling, e-biking, and e-scooter use are a great way to experience life in and around Leuven. Rather than viewing insurance as something to worry about, think of it as a tool that helps you enjoy your journey with greater confidence. By understanding what is covered, staying informed about the latest regulations, and taking a few sensible safety precautions, you can make the most of Leuven's mobility-friendly environment.
Helpful Dutch Words for Everyday Mobility
Dutch | English |
Fiets | Bicycle |
Elektrische fiets (e-bike) | E-bike |
Elektrische step (e-step) | Electric scooter |
Fietspad | Bicycle lane |
Helm | Helmet |
Verzekering | Insurance |
Burgerlijke aansprakelijkheid (BA) | Third-party liability |
Diefstal | Theft |
Schade | Damage |
Verkeersongeval | Traffic accident |
Arbeidsongevallenverzekering | Occupational accident insurance |
Woon-werkverkeer | Commuting |
Pechbijstand | Roadside assistance |
Fietsleasing | Bicycle leasing |
Fluovest | High-visibility vest |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a helmet mandatory when riding a bicycle in Belgium?
For most adult cyclists, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended but generally not mandatory. Different rules may apply for specific vehicle categories such as certain speed pedelecs. Always verify the latest regulations.
Is a helmet required for all e-scooters?
No. The current federal requirement applies to e-scooters capable of exceeding 20 km/h.
If my bike is stolen, does occupational accident insurance cover it?
No. Occupational accident insurance primarily covers bodily injuries.
Do I need insurance for my e-bike?
Not always, but theft and damage insurance can be worthwhile, especially for higher-value e-bikes.
What if I damage someone else's property with my e-scooter?
Third-party liability coverage may apply if you have the appropriate policy. Coverage depends on your circumstances and vehicle type.
My employer provides a leased bike. Am I automatically covered?
Not necessarily. Coverage varies between employers and leasing providers. Ask for details regarding theft, damage, maintenance, and liability coverage.
Resources
This article was written in collaboration with insurance broker Vanbreda-Ausloos and International House Leuven. They are happy to help you map the risks associated with soft mobility and provide a comprehensive insurance solution that ensures both employers and employees feel optimally protected.
Contact details
Vanbreda Ausloos – Justus Lipsiusstraat 46C, 3000 Leuven
Miek Debusschere – miek.debusschere@vanbreda.be - 016/563888