E-Scooter Hire Companies Put Profit Ahead of Helmet Safety

Electric scooter riders in Spain have been mandated to wear helmets since October 1, 2026, but the app-based rental companies have not addressed how customers can obtain a helmet upon hiring a vehicle. The requirement applies to all riders, including those using rental scooters. However, users who hire a scooter through an app may not have a helmet with them, as the companies do not provide one.

The apps remind users of the compulsory helmet rule, but do not offer a solution for obtaining one. The Royal Decree 518/2026, approved on June 24, 2026, amended Spain’s General Traffic Regulations, setting the minimum age for riding at 15, requiring lights or reflective elements at night or in poor visibility, and explicitly placing the responsibility on the rider to wear a helmet.

The decree does not require rental companies to supply helmets, but customers are expected to have access to essential safety equipment before starting a rental. The safety guidance provided by platforms operating in Spain's provinces, such as Hoopy and Vamoz, emphasizes the importance of helmet usage. However, neither company has responded to inquiries regarding how they intend to ensure riders can obtain helmets when renting.

Additionally, municipalities have different rules regarding scooter rental operators. While Orihuela has formally regulated a shared scooter service, Torrevieja's council claims no operator is authorized to operate in the city, despite visible scooters being present. Benidorm has taken a stricter stance, prohibiting commercial rentals on public roads, except for municipal services.