Breaking the new e-scooter usage rules can mean a fine of up to 1,000 euros

The publication of new e-scooter usage rules sets out financial penalties for anyone who breaks the legislation

Finally, after the exponential growth of personal mobility vehicles (VMP), the Directorate-General for Traffic has updated the rules on e-scooters and other vehicles that facilitate individual transport.

With the publication of the new Instruction 2019/S-149 TV-108 regulating the use of personal mobility vehicles, which replaces the previous Instruction 16/V-124 of the Directorate-General for Traffic, a list of punishable actions is set out, for which the fine can amount to 1,000 euros.

The most expensive fines you can get while riding an e-scooter

This penalty would apply to those who, while using a VMP, undergo an alcohol or drug test and are found to have amounts or substances that are not permitted. Depending on the level, the fine starts from 500 up to 1,000 €, and 1,000 if drugs are found in the body.

In this way, the e-scooter rules are equated with those in Article 77, Very serious infractions, which covers driving with blood alcohol levels above those regulatorily established, or with the presence of drugs in the body. and also Article 98, Infractions, which prohibits driving with drugs present in the body. However, unlike these situations when driving motor vehicles, VMP riders will not have points deducted from their driving licence, if they hold one.

The new e-scooter rules do not, for now, require administrative authorisation to ride or to drive, nor compulsory insurance for the vehicle.

200 € fines for using an e-scooter

The safety clothing and equipment required under the new e-scooter rules makes wearing a helmet necessary at all times, and the use of reflective clothing or lighting at night. Failing to comply carries a 200 euro fine.

Riding e-scooters on pavements or pedestrian areas is prohibited, and breaching this also carries a 200 € penalty.

Furthermore, situations such as riding while using a mobile phone or headphones or other sound devices are punishable by a 200 euro fine.

Sharing an e-scooter will cost you dearly

As this is a personal mobility vehicle, the new e-scooter rules establish that it is an individual means of transport and, therefore, may only be used by one person.

Simultaneous use by two or more people of an e-scooter carries a fine of 100 euros.

E-scooter use by minors

If any of these penalties, or others set out in the rules established by local authorities on the use of scooters e-scooters, is committed by a person under 18, their parents, guardians or legal carers will be responsible for paying the fines.