Barcelona has introduced a new law making helmets mandatory for all e-scooter riders, effective from Saturday. The move comes amid a rise in e-scooter use across Spain, which has been accompanied by increased accidents and concerns from both drivers and pedestrians about safety and parking violations.

Under the new regulation, riders who fail to wear a helmet will face a fine of 100 euros ($105). Additionally, to enhance pedestrian safety, e-scooters will be prohibited from riding on pavements, with violations potentially resulting in fines up to 500 euros.

Bicycles, like e-scooters, will also be banned from sidewalks, except for cyclists accompanying minors. The city had already implemented a ban on e-scooter use for individuals under 16 years old and imposed a speed limit of 25 kilometers per hour (15 miles per hour).

The helmet mandate also extends to rental e-scooter operators, a measure that aligns Barcelona with other cities like Paris and Madrid.

Channelstv