Benidorm Considers Banning Two-Seater Mobility Scooters Due to Safety Concerns

Benidorm, a popular Spanish tourist destination, is considering a ban on two-seater mobility scooters amid growing safety concerns and a reported high accident rate. Local council members have voted in favor of prohibiting these tandem vehicles, which are frequently used by older tourists and visitors to navigate the resort.

According to Benidorm town hall, mobility scooters are involved in approximately 25% of accidents occurring on the town's urban roads. The proposed changes aim to curb dangerous situations by restricting the use of certain multi-person vehicles that are seen as being used for leisure or as an alternative tourist transport rather than for genuine mobility needs.

Single-seat mobility scooters used by individuals who require them for proven reduced mobility or who are over 55 will still be permitted under the proposed regulations. The new rules would also extend to self-propelled chairs and e-scooters. However, these changes are not yet final and will undergo a 30-day public consultation period before confirmation.

Benidorm mobility councillor Francis Muñoz stated, "Our intention is to prevent certain vehicles designed to carry several people from being used as a leisure activity or tourist transport alternative, creating dangerous situations in areas intended for pedestrians." Some companies in the resort continue to advertise tandem mobility scooters for hire, with daily rates ranging from €50 to €70.

This potential ban follows previous efforts to regulate mobility scooter use in the area. In 2019, Benidorm banned mobility scooters, electric scooters, and Segways from pavements after complaints from local residents. Those regulations also introduced a 12mph speed limit, with fines of up to £430 for offenders. Riders were also required to carry insurance, wear helmets, and use a fluorescent vest or bell.

The move also comes as Spain, particularly the Valencia region where Benidorm is located, has been introducing stricter rules for tourists. This year has seen a crackdown on rowdy hen and stag parties, with proposed regulations aiming to limit public celebrations on streets between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. on weekdays and extending those hours on weekends and public holiday eves. Violators could face fines between €750 and €1,500.

The history of accidents in Benidorm involving mobility devices includes a tragic incident in 2022 where a 58-year-old British woman died after falling approximately 65 feet off a steep hillside while riding a mobility scooter.