The Local Police issued fines to 54 electric scooter riders in just one day during a special operation aimed at enforcing traffic regulations on personal mobility vehicles (VMPs).
The crackdown, which took place during the afternoon and evening of 18th March in Arrecife, focused on preventing illegal riding practices across various parts of the city.
The operation also led to the confiscation of eight electric scooters that lacked the required technical certification. According to Spain’s Directorate General of Traffic (DGT), all VMPs must be certified for use as of 22nd January 2024.
The DGT mandates that electric scooters must follow standard road traffic rules. They are prohibited from being ridden on pavements and in pedestrian areas, and must instead travel on the road, in the same direction as the flow of traffic. The maximum authorised speed for these vehicles is 25 km/h.
The Mayor of Arrecife, Yonathan de León, who also oversees the city’s police force, had previously called for increased vigilance after observing a surge in the use of electric scooters across the capital of Lanzarote. Authorities have expressed concern over underage riders and widespread disregard for traffic laws.
Police stated that the confiscated scooters either lacked the mandatory technical approval or were seized in cases involving holidaymakers as a guarantee for payment of fines. These preventive checks are part of an ongoing effort to improve road safety and ensure residents see that traffic regulations are being enforced throughout the city.
The Local Police of Arrecife will continue to conduct regular inspections in various areas to uphold public safety and promote responsible use of personal mobility vehicles.
