Regulations and penalties: what you need to know when riding your electric scooter

In a scenario where electric mobility is consolidating as a sustainable alternative, it is essential to know the regulations governing the use of personal mobility vehicles (PMVs), such as electric scooters. Recently, information on the associated infractions and penalties has been updated, with the aim of guaranteeing road safety and respect for pedestrians in urban areas.

Riding on pavements and pedestrian areas

In this regard, taking the sections together, it is concluded that driving any kind of vehicle on pavements and other pedestrian areas is prohibited, with the exception of riding on these parts of the road when it involves only scooters, skates or similar devices used exclusively at walking pace, and it will carry a fine of 200 €.

Offences relating to blood alcohol levels and the presence of drugs

“The driver of a vehicle is obliged to submit to tests for the detection of alcohol or the presence of drugs in the body”

Cases of refusal to submit to the tests will be reported as an offence with a penalty of 500 or 1,000 € as appropriate, or in the case of drugs with a penalty of 1,000 €.

If drivers subjected to alcohol detection tests, taking the general limit of 0.25 milligrams of alcohol per litre as a reference, or tests for the presence of drugs return a positive result, a report will be filed for an offence with a penalty of 500 or 1,000 € as appropriate.

Mobile phone.

The General Traffic Regulation prohibits the use of devices such as mobile phones and any other means or communication system while driving, so a report will be filed against the driver for an offence with a penalty of 200 €.

No more than one person on your PMV

The General Traffic Regulation clearly establishes that the number of people carried on a PMV may not exceed the number of seats available. Riding with two or more people on an electric scooter will result in a fine of 100 euros, thereby promoting safer and more efficient travel.

Headphones and protective equipment

Using headphones connected to sound devices while riding a PMV is also prohibited, with associated fines of 200 euros. In addition, riding without a protective helmet constitutes an offence punishable by 200 euros and the deduction of 3 points. These measures seek to protect the physical integrity of riders and to foster a culture of safety in urban mobility.

Visibility and night-time safety

Riding at night without working lights and without reflective clothing or elements that make the rider visible to other road users will be penalised with 200 euros. This measure, designed for situations of poor visibility, seeks to ensure that PMV users take the precautions necessary to avoid dangerous situations.

Stopping and parking

PMV users must comply with the system of offences established in the rules on stopping and parking, under articles 90 and following of the General Traffic Regulation. These regulations, supplemented by the municipal ordinances on mobility, seek to maintain a safe and orderly flow on urban roads.

Minors and their guardians

Where the offence is committed by minors, article 82.b) of the LTSV will apply. The parents, guardians or foster carers will be jointly and severally liable for the fine imposed, thereby promoting greater supervision and road education from an early age.