Mandatory Insurance for E-Scooters: A New Era of Responsibility on Spanish Roads

Electric scooters, or Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs), have rapidly become a ubiquitous sight in towns and cities across Spain, revolutionising urban travel. However, with their growing popularity comes an increased need for regulation and accountability. From 2 January 2026, a significant new obligation will come into force across Spain: all PMVs will be required to have a valid civil liability insurance policy. This change aligns Spanish regulations with European Directive 2021/2118, aiming to enhance road safety and ensure proper compensation for accident victims.

The introduction of mandatory insurance marks a pivotal shift. It is estimated that currently, a very small percentage of privately owned e-scooters are insured. While precise national figures are difficult to ascertain due to the lack of a comprehensive central registry until now, local estimates suggest compliance could be as low as under 5% in some areas. This stark figure highlights a considerable gap in protection, given the rising number of incidents involving these vehicles.

The Rising Tide of PMV Accidents

The surge in e-scooter usage has unfortunately been mirrored by a corresponding increase in accidents. Across Spain, cities have reported a significant uptick in incidents involving PMVs. For instance, in one major city, accidents involving PMVs nearly doubled from 62 in 2023 to 107 in 2024. This trend isn’t new; historical data from as far back as 2018 shows a dramatic rise from single-digit accident figures. While e-scooters offer an agile and environmentally friendly transport solution, their increasing presence means a higher statistical probability of collisions with pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.

Accidents involving e-scooters can range from minor material damage to severe personal injuries. Injuries to users often include fractures of the limbs and head injuries, with some studies indicating that a third of patients suffer traumatic brain injury in e-scooter accidents. Pedestrians can also sustain serious injuries if struck, particularly vulnerable groups like the elderly, with tibia fractures being a common outcome. These incidents underscore the critical need for robust insurance coverage.

What the New Obligation Means for E-Scooter Users

The upcoming legislation makes civil liability insurance compulsory for most e-scooters and other light personal vehicles. This means that if you, as an e-scooter user, cause damage or injury to a third party (another person or their property), your insurance policy will cover the associated costs.

Key aspects of the new requirements include:

Public Registry: Throughout 2025, a public registry of light personal vehicles will be created, requiring electric scooters to be registered. This will provide authorities with better oversight and facilitate enforcement of the new insurance rules.

Affordable Cost: Industry experts suggest the cost of a basic civil liability policy for an e-scooter will be relatively affordable, typically ranging from 30 to 50 euro per year. The premium can vary based on factors such as the coverage level chosen, the weight of the e-scooter, and its maximum speed.

Protection Against High Costs: While the annual cost is low, the benefits are substantial. Without insurance, a user responsible for an accident could face enormous financial burdens.

Compensation can vary greatly:

• For minor material damage, such as a torn garment or a damaged mobile phone, the compensation will be lower.
• For personal injuries, including medical expenses, rehabilitation, disability, or long-term after-effects, compensation can be considerably higher.
• In the most severe cases, such as fatalities, compensation can reach figures of up to €400,000.
• Damage to vehicles, road infrastructure, or street furniture can also result in significant costs.

Addressing Misconceptions: Home Insurance Exclusions

A common misconception among e-scooter owners is that their home insurance policy might already cover such incidents. However, many home insurance policies specifically exclude damage caused by motor vehicles, which often includes e-scooters. It is crucial for users to review their existing policies carefully and, if in doubt, consult an insurance broker to ensure they have adequate cover. For minors, policies must be taken out by an adult, with the minor added as an insured party.