All we all know as Brit vacationers warned over mobility scooter guidelines on holidays
Need to know
A new study of 2,000 UK adults shows Brits are confused about mobility scooter rules abroad, with fines of up to €1,000 being issued at popular European holiday destinations
British tourists heading to Tenerife are being warned they could face hefty on-the-spot fines(Image: Getty Images)
NEED TO KNOW: Brit tourists face €1,000 fines for mobility scooter misuse in Tenerife and across Europe
- British tourists heading to Tenerife this summer are being warned they could face hefty on-the-spot fines as local police crack down on mobility scooter misuse.
- Around 6.3 million Brits visit the Canary Island hotspot each year, but the easy availability of mobility scooter rentals has led to increasing misuse by visitors without genuine mobility needs. Some rental providers now require younger users to provide medical proof of disability before hiring a vehicle.
- A new study of 2,000 UK adults reveals widespread confusion about mobility scooter laws, with 38% wrongly believing the devices are banned from pavements. Ben Kenny, Director at Muick Sandy, warned: “As we move into peak travel season, travellers must understand that rules can vary significantly between destinations, and misuse can result in serious penalties including fines and even having your mobility scooter seized by local police.”
- In Tenerife, authorities have introduced strict penalties with fines up to €500 (£435) and reports of scooters being confiscated. Rental conditions may include age restrictions, proof of disability requirements, and mandatory insurance.
- Popular Spanish destinations like Benidorm have also tightened regulations, with rental age limits increased to over 65 unless users have certified mobility issues. Fines of up to €1,000 (£870) are being issued for unsafe use.
- Across Europe, rules vary significantly – France requires speeds of 5 km/h or less with insurance mandatory, while Italy classes scooters as medical aids with 6 km/h limits on pavements.
- Kenny urged travellers to check local authority rules before travelling, warning that fines can reach €1,000 across European destinations.
- READ THE FULL STORY: British tourists warned over little-known laws that could result in instant fines
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