Shared-bike operator Dott estimates €400,000 ($450,000) in vehicle damage across three French cities after weekend riots, adding to business losses as France prepares aid.
Of Dott’s 6,000 electric bikes in Paris, about 300 were destroyed during Saturday’s unrest, the company told Reuters. Another 120 were severely damaged. Dott also reported 30 to 40 destroyed scooters in Lyon and 80 destroyed bikes and scooters in Bordeaux.
Lime said damage or destruction affected about 6% of its Paris fleet of bikes and scooters. Before the protests, the company worked with police to clear vehicles from planned demonstration routes. It also limited riding and parking in areas it considered at risk, adjusting those restrictions as conditions changed over the weekend.
Reuters reported that bikes on Paris streets and at docking stations were readily accessible to protesters. Some were used to build barricades or set on fire. The news agency said it found no indication that protesters had specifically targeted the operators.
Le Parisien reported that about 5% of Velib’s fleet of 18,000 docked electric bikes was damaged or destroyed. Reuters said Velib had not immediately responded to its request for comment.
The vehicle losses add to the costs businesses face after protests over living costs and public services escalated into riots and looting. France is preparing aid for businesses affected by damage and looting. An exceptional business council is scheduled for Oct. 20 as retailers assess the damage.
