The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Council, through its Mobility department, has called on the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) to create national regulations clarifying certain aspects related to Personal Mobility Vehicles (VMPs), such as electric scooters and bicycles.
They have emphasised the need to balance mobility innovation with public safety, promoting responsible use of electric scooters. The Mayor stressed the importance of unified criteria so that all local councils can implement regulations according to DGT guidelines.
Evelyn Alonso, the councillor for mobility, highlighted the necessity of regulations to reduce the number of accidents in an official letter to Pere Navarro, director of the DGT.
Alonso recalled that Santa Cruz proactively introduced a new Mobility Ordinance in 2023 due to the lack of specific regulations. This ordinance includes rules for the “behaviour and requirements” of the most vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists, and VMP (Personal Mobility Vehicle) users.
The Department of Mobility has proposed several suggestions to the DGT to improve VMP usage:
1. Mandatory Helmet Use: For both bicycle and electric scooter users.
2. Civil Liability Insurance: To protect pedestrians and other users in case of accidents involving VMPs.
3. Vehicle Identification: A registration or identification number to allow police to sanction violations.
4. Minimum Age Requirement: For the use of bicycles and electric scooters in public places.
5. Reflective Gear: Mandatory use of vests or reflective elements on the VMP.
6. Basic Training: A minimum theoretical and practical training for VMP users.
The proposals aim to create a safer environment by ensuring that all VMP users adhere to standardised safety practices. The city council's proactive approach underlines their commitment to safeguarding public welfare while embracing new modes of transportation.
The collaboration between local authorities and the DGT is crucial in developing comprehensive regulations that protect all road users.
