From capitals and large cities to small towns and rural areas, these personal mobility vehicles can now be found in almost any corner of Spain. Much is said about the pros and cons of electric scooters, which are the best models on the market and the recent regulatory developments to which they must conform to comply as another road user. However, what is not usually discussed so often is the issue of its basic maintenance. Despite the fact that it is something fundamental.
These single-seater vehicles must comply with a series of regulations while moving through the city. For example, they are prohibited from traveling on sidewalks or pedestrian areas, but also on highways and dual carriageways. And its speed must always be between 6 and 25 kilometers per hour. But, in addition to these rules, electric scooters are also required to carry out a series of maintenance tasks so that they function optimally. This would minimize the risk of accidents.
The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) includes in its “Manual of characteristics of personal mobility vehicles” the minimum safety that electric scooters must meet in order to circulate. Among them is the obligation to have a braking system, an appropriate equipment of lights and rear and front reflective elements and an acoustic warning device, such as a bell.
In addition, it is recalled that while using an electric scooter it is forbidden to use headphones or a mobile phone, due to the risk of an accident that it poses to the driver and other road users. And it must always be used by a single person, something to which the classification of these devices as Personal Mobility Vehicle (VMP) responds.
In order for electric scooters to remain in ideal safety conditions, it is essential to subject them to regular maintenance. In the case of broken or deteriorated parts, it is not recommended to use it before it has undergone a review. Nor if the battery life presents some type of alteration, such as considerably accelerated consumption. And, of course, the appearance of air leaks or wear on your tires will require maintenance before they are put into circulation. The DGT also recommends paying attention to possible noises or abnormal sounds, for example, when making turns.
All these situations would require a visit to a specialized workshop. Other aspects related to maintenance that the user should not forget have to do with the condition and pressure of the wheels. It is also advisable to clean the electric scooter being careful not to wet the areas with electrical components.
