A 15-year-old boy has been injured and admitted to hospital after his electric scooter collided with a car in Los Cristianos, Tenerife, late on Tuesday night, according to the Emergency Services Coordination Centre (CECOES).
The accident occurred at around 10:15pm on Avenida Londres, and the necessary emergency resources were quickly dispatched to the scene.
Paramedics assessed the teenage boy and found he had suffered trauma and multiple contusions of ‘moderate’ severity. After being treated he was taken by ambulance to the Hospital del Sur for further medical care.
Local Police officers also attended the incident, gathering evidence and launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Authorities continue to stress the importance of road safety awareness, particularly for electric scooter users, as such incidents are becoming increasingly common.
What are the laws for the use of electric scooters in the Canary Islands?
In the Canaries, the use of electric scooters is governed by both national regulations and local ordinances aimed at ensuring safety for all road users. Key points to be aware of include:
1. Definition and Speed Limits: Electric scooters are classified as Personal Mobility Vehicles (PMVs), designed for single-person use and powered exclusively by electric motors. They must have a maximum design speed between 6 and 25 km/h. Exceeding the 25 km/h limit can result in fines up to €500.
2. Permitted Areas of Use: Riding on pavements is strictly prohibited. Scooters should be used in cycle lanes, bicycle-friendly sidewalks, and roads with speed limits of less than 30km/h. Using them on interurban roads, highways, urban tunnels, and pedestrian areas is not allowed.
3. Age Restrictions: Individuals under 16 are prohibited from using electric scooters on public roads. Parents or guardians are held responsible for any infringements by minors.
4. Helmet Use: While not mandatory for riders over 18, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended for safety. For those under 18, helmet use is compulsory.
5. Alcohol and Drug Regulations: Operating an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal. Offenders can face fines ranging from €500 to €1,000, depending on the level of impairment.
6. Distractions: Using mobile phones, headphones, or any device that impairs focus while riding is prohibited and can result in a €200 fine.
7. Visibility Requirements: When riding at night, scooters must be equipped with proper lighting, and riders should wear reflective clothing or accessories. Non-compliance can result in a €200 fine.
8. Parking: Scooters must be parked in designated areas without obstructing traffic or pedestrian pathways. Improper parking can lead to fines of up to €200.
9. Local Regulations: Municipalities within the Canary Islands may have additional rules. For example, Adeje has implemented an ordinance requiring helmet use and has increased fees for retrieving improperly parked scooters.
