Rules for driving electric scooters2022
According to a report by RACC, which analyzes the profile and behavior of users of electric scooters and other Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs) in the city of Barcelona, most of those surveyed claim to be unaware of the basic regulations. But more seriously, it is not uncommon for VMP riders to break the rules. 43% recognize that they ride on the sidewalk, a practice that is not allowed. And 12% of VMP users have ever had a personal injury accident. It is therefore a good idea to remember the basic rules for riding a scooter.
The current regulations and legislation for electric scooters in Spain are constantly being revised and updated due to the boom of this type of electric vehicles. As a general rule, we must ride on bike lanes, with a moderate speed, so as not to harm other skaters or cyclists.
DGT Basic Regulations
Before driving, it is important to know the rules that users of personal mobility vehicles (PMVs) have to comply with when traveling in urban areas and to do so safely. In 2020, 8 fatalities were recorded in this type of vehicle, 7 of them on urban roads and 1 on interurban roads, roads where their use is prohibited.
Each municipality can regulate, in a specific way, the circulation of VMPs (including electric scooters). However, all users must meet certain minimum conditions, which we will see below.
- VMPs are prohibited on sidewalks, pedestrian areas, crosswalks, highways, freeways, interurban roads or tunnels in urban areas. The roads authorized to circulate will be indicated in a municipal ordinance. If there is none, traffic is allowed on any urban roadway.
- The speed of these vehicles should be between 6 and 25 km/h.
Circulation. VMPs are prohibited on sidewalks, pedestrian areas, crosswalks, highways, freeways, interurban roads or tunnels in urban areas. The roads authorized to circulate will be indicated in a municipal ordinance. If there is none, traffic is allowed on any urban roadway.
Technical requirements. The DGT is preparing the drafting of a manual with technical specifications. Once issued and after 24 months have elapsed, all VMPs must carry a movement certificate to ensure minimum safety requirements.
Other standards. The speed of these vehicles should be between 6 and 25 km/h. It is mandatory to have a braking system, an acoustic warning device (bell), lights and front and rear reflective devices. Sanctions. Driving an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol and other drugs can result in a fine of between 500 and 1,000 € depending on the alcohol level or 1,000 € if drugs are involved. In case of a positive result, the vehicle will be immobilized, as is the case with all other vehicles. For using a cell phone while driving a scooter or any other communication device, the fine will be 200 €. The same amount must be paid by those who wear headphones; if driving at night without lighting or reflective clothing and if not wearing a helmet, if the municipal ordinance makes this measure mandatory.
