Spain implements new traffic regulations for road safety

New reforms to Spain’s General Traffic Regulations have entered into force, aiming to increase protection for vulnerable road users including pedestrians, cyclists, and personal mobility vehicle (VMP) users.

Key changes for electric scooter users include a minimum age requirement of 15 years and the mandatory use of helmets. While some requirements, such as permanent daytime lighting for VMPs and specific helmet homologation for mopeds, will not be enforced until October 2027, current rules mandate reflective vests for night riding or low visibility. Professional users, such as delivery riders, must wear reflective vests at all times.

For motorists, new rules mandate a lateral separation of at least 1.5 meters when overtaking cyclists or pedestrians, with violations carrying a 200-euro fine and a 6-point license deduction. Additionally, drivers must reduce their speed by at least 20 kilometers per hour when passing vehicles immobilized due to accidents, breakdowns, or maintenance work.

In conjunction with these regulatory changes, the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) is deploying special operations to manage high traffic volumes during holiday periods, utilizing helicopters, drones, and mobile radar to monitor speed and driver distractions.