March 27, 2025
April 23, 2025
We all know how important it is to save time when commuting around the city. While walking is always the healthiest option for our body and mind, it is undeniable that public transport and private cars are winning the battle on a daily basis. In recent years we have seen that even bicycles have gained prominence thanks to cycle lanes, which are becoming more and more common in big cities. But a new form of transport is here to stay: the electric scooter.
This new way of getting around the city has generated love and hate wherever it goes, and even large capitals such as Paris have held citizen referendums to control its use. Today we all know that many young people and tourists choose them to get around, but only a few are aware of the regulations governing their use. Therefore, in this article I will talk about the advantages and disadvantages of scooter use, the importance of electric scooter insurance, and the existing regulations in Spain. Put on your helmet and keep reading.
The advantages of the electric scooter
If you have not yet considered owning one, you may be wondering what the rest of the world sees in this mode of transport that has invaded European cities in recent years. The truth is that, like it or not, it has undeniable advantages. Here we share some of them:
Sustainability. The electric scooter, as its name suggests, does not need fuel to operate, so it does not emit polluting gases. It is evident that the carbon footprint will be smaller if we use this vehicle instead of our usual cars.
Size. Scooters are compact and this allows you to move with them almost anywhere. Just like bicycles and motorbikes, they are used to move around the city in an efficient way, and you can take them with you much more easily.
Price. It is definitely the cheapest option when it comes to buying a motor vehicle. In this regard, it beats second-hand cars, to give a clear example. If you decide to buy an electric scooter, you will find a wide range of units from €200 to approximately €800.
But of course, not everything is perfect in the world of scooters. There are also some drawbacks, as we will see below.
The disadvantages of the electric scooter
Battery operating time. As it is an electric vehicle, you have to take into account that its charge is not endless. On the contrary, depending on the type of battery, speed and distances travelled, it can last between 3 and 8 hours. Battery autonomy can be a limitation if you want to travel long distances.
Restricted areas. Electric scooters are not allowed on high-speed roads, such as motorways and highways, and, more importantly, they are not allowed on pavements. This brings us to the next point.
Maximum speed. This type of vehicle can only travel at 25 km per hour. So if you are planning to travel long distances, this may not be your best option.
Safety. Like bicycles and motorbikes, electric scooters can be a particularly dangerous vehicle if safety precautions are not taken. Given the short experience we have with them, they can sometimes lead to overconfidence and potentially fatal accidents.
It is important to take every possible precaution to protect ourselves and other drivers and pedestrians. Like any other vehicle, we will feel safer if we have a good insurance policy to protect us against potential accidents.
Yes, you do need electric scooter insurance
As we mentioned earlier, the electric scooter is a relatively recent means of transport in our cities. This means that the regulations are still very variable, and in the case of Spain, they also vary depending on the autonomous community. But what about insurance? Is it compulsory to have one in order to ride an electric scooter?
The truth is that, at the moment, it is not compulsory. But this is going to change in 2026. In May 2024, the Spanish government approved a draft law making it compulsory for electric scooters and other VMPs (personal mobility vehicles) to have civil liability insurance. The date set for this draft law to become effective is 2 January 2026.
If you still don't have electric scooter insurance you can take a look at Caser's new insurance, which you can take out from €32 a month. With this liability insurance you will be covered against possible damage to third parties, physical or material, arising from an accident with your electric scooter. This insurance also includes legal defence costs in case you need it.
Like all Caser insurances, it can be adapted to your needs, so you can choose between three different types of coverage for your electric scooter. You can see all the details in this link. My recommendation is that you don't let this opportunity pass you by, as safety is always a priority.
The regulations in Spain
Although it is true that the regulations are constantly being updated, there are certain basic rules that the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) provides you with so that you can drive safely. You can see them clearly in this link.
We would like to highlight here the most important ones, which are general for the whole territory:
- VMPs will have a maximum speed of 25 km per hour.
- They are forbidden to circulate on pavements and high-speed roads.
- Drivers must respect the rules of the road and must not exceed the blood alcohol levels allowed for other drivers.
- Drivers must also wear helmets and may not use mobile phones or any other electronic device that could distract them from driving.
In summary, riding an electric scooter entails a great responsibility, just like all other means of transport in the city. That is why in this article we wanted to inform you about its use, the available insurances, and the current regulations, so that you can drive with peace of mind in your city. As always, you can contact us if you have any questions. See you next time and drive safe!
Frequently Asked Questions
Several factors can affect the cost of insuring an electric scooter:
- Rider's Age and Driving History: Younger riders or those with a history of
- Scooter Specifications: The make, model, engine capacity, and overall value of the scooter can impact insurance costs. More powerful or expensive models typically incur higher premiums.
- Location: Urban areas with higher traffic density may lead to increased insurance rates due to a greater risk of accidents.
- Coverage Type: Opting for comprehensive coverage, which includes liability, collision, and other protections, will generally cost more than basic liability coverage.
In Spain, insurance for electric scooters will be mandatory at national level from 2026, according to the draft law passed in May 2024. Currently, it is not mandatory at state level, but some cities, such as Palma de Mallorca, have already implemented local regulations requiring insurance and helmets. Users are advised to check the regulations in their municipality.
Insurance policies for electric scooters can include various types of coverage:
- Liability Coverage: Covers damages or injuries you may cause to others while operating your scooter.
- Collision Coverage: Pays for damages to your scooter resulting from a collision, regardless of fault.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against non-collision-related damages, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
- Personal Injury Protection: Covers medical expenses for injuries sustained by you or your passengers in an accident.
To secure favorable insurance rates for your electric scooter:
- Compare Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers to identify competitive rates.
- Assess Coverage Needs: Determine the level of coverage appropriate for your situation to avoid paying for unnecessary protections.
- Maintain a Clean Driving Record: A history free of accidents or violations can qualify you for lower premiums.
- Inquire About Discounts: Some insurers offer discounts for safety course completion, bundling policies, or other factors.
By understanding these aspects, you can make informed decisions about ensuring your electric scooter, ensuring both compliance with local laws and financial protection.
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