The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) or Directorate-General for Traffic has announced two new measures for electric scooters and other personal mobility vehicles (PMVs). These measures aim to improve road safety and provide more peace of mind for pedestrians, although they will come with an additional cost for users.

New Obligations for Electric Scooter Users

Mandatory Registration and Licensing

One of the most significant changes is the requirement for electric scooters and other PMVs to be registered and licensed. This measure will allow for proper identification and better determination of liability in case of an accident causing damage to third parties. Inclusion in an official registry will also help authorities maintain stricter control over these vehicles.

Liability Insurance Requirement

In addition to registration, electric scooters will need to have liability insurance. This is another provision included in the new Auto Insurance Law project, recently approved by the Council of Ministers. The requirement for insurance aims to cover potential damages to third parties and provide greater security for traffic accident victims.

Estimated Effective Date

The law project will be sent to the Congress of Deputies for parliamentary processing. It is expected that the regulations will come into effect by January 2, 2026, at the latest. Once the law is approved, there will be a six-month grace period for PMV owners to obtain the mandatory insurance without facing penalties.

Cost of the New Insurance Policies

Insurance premiums for electric scooters will be lower than those for motor vehicles, as the potential damages caused by scooters are less severe. The Ministry of Economy explained that ‘the risk is lower, and therefore the premium should be lower.’

Improved Compensation for Victims

The new regulations will also enhance compensation for traffic accident victims. This includes a clearer and broader definition of vehicles required to have mandatory liability insurance, though electric bicycles will not be included. Additionally, compensation rules for death, permanent injuries, and temporary injuries will be updated according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

Promoting Sustainable Transportation and Social Awareness

The new regulations aim not only to improve road safety but also to promote the use of sustainable transportation. With the proliferation of light mobility vehicles, it is crucial to raise awareness about the potential damage they can cause and protect everyone from these risks.

Although these measures will result in an additional cost for electric scooter users, they seek to balance the promotion of sustainable transportation with the safety of all citizens.

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Main image: Shutterstock/ No-Mad