ELECTRIC SCOOTERS: NEW RULES FROM THE 2ND OF JANUARY 2021
Electric Scooters Rules from 2021 - Recently, there has been a considerable increase in the number of these vehicles on the roads, where they have become an alternative means of travel for many.
The modifications to the General Traffic and Vehicle Regulations, by Royal Decree 970/2020, of November 10th 2020, affect "personal mobility vehicles" (electric scooters "segway"), which will become formally classed as "vehicles", for all intents and purposes.
The new rules, which will come into effect on the 2nd of January 2021, are:
1. A “personal mobility vehicle” is a vehicle with one or more wheels, equipped with a SINGLE SEAT / SPACE and powered exclusively by electric motors, which can provide the vehicle with a MAXIMUM SPEED of between 6 and 25 km/h. They can only be equipped with a seat or saddle if they are equipped with a self-balancing system.
Vehicles used by PEOPLE WITH REDUCED MOBILITY, such as wheelchairs, are NOT included in this category.
2. Like any other vehicle, IT IS PROHIBITED TO DRIVE ON SIDEWALKS AND PEDESTRIAN ZONES. Neither will they be able to drive on roads classed as “interurban roads” (vías interurbanas), as well as motorways (autopistas) or autovías that pass within a town or in tunnels.
3. Drivers of a personal mobility vehicle will have to comply with traffic regulations like any other vehicle: they may be subjected to alcohol and drug tests; They will not be able to use a mobile phone, headphones or earphones; The vehicle will have to have a lighting system and/or use reflective clothing; they have to respect the stop and parking prohibitions; etc.
In the future, personal mobility vehicles will have to have a CERTIFICATE FOR CIRCULATION (CERTIFICADO PARA LA CIRCULACIÓN).
Graphic, from SEAPA-PROTECCION CIVIL which summarises the most important rules that personal mobility vehicles must comply with from the 2nd of January 2021.
Buyers of these vehicles, should also note.
Make sure that they comply with the new regulations and have the necessary road safety devices, such as:
a) You must make sure that the electric scooter you buy does not succeed the maximum speed of 25 km/h, since, in the event of exceeding it, would not be able legal to use on public roads.
b) Front and rear lights.
c) Reflectors
d) When the personal mobility vehicle is used by a minor, their parents or legal guardians will be liable for any fines they may incur.