The Reform of the General Traffic Regulations Strengthens Road Safety and the Protection of Vulnerable Road Users.

The Reform of the General Traffic Regulations, introduced by Royal Decree 518/2026 and in force since 1 October 2026, represents a shift in mobility policy by placing people at the centre of the transport system and strengthening the protection of vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, users of personal mobility vehicles (PMVs), and motorcyclists. It also introduces new rules specifically aimed at urban traffic, promoting safer and more sustainable mobility while aligning with the objectives of the 2030 Agenda in areas such as public health, urban sustainability, and climate action.

Among the key developments are the minimum age of 15 for riding e-scooters, the mandatory use of helmets for PMV users and all cyclists without exception, new requirements for safely overtaking cyclists, and stricter equipment standards for motorcyclists and moped riders. The reform also introduces measures to improve the safety of pedestrians and schoolchildren, regulates the creation of emergency lanes in situations of traffic congestion or snow, and extends the mandatory use of seat belts to groups that had previously benefited from certain exemptions. Overall, these changes seek to strengthen coexistence between different modes of transport and reduce risks on the roads.

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