Spain is set to implement significant changes to its road safety and traffic regulations starting October 1, 2026. These new rules aim to enhance protection for all road users, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups such as cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists, moped users, and electric scooter riders.
One of the key changes requires drivers to maintain a minimum lateral distance of 1.5 meters when overtaking cyclists, pedestrians, mopeds, and other vulnerable users outside built-up areas. On multilane roads, motorists must fully change lanes to overtake. Additionally, drivers must reduce their speed by at least 20 km/h below the speed limit during overtaking maneuvers.
In response to traffic congestion on motorways, drivers will be required to create clear pathways for emergency vehicles by positioning their cars appropriately when traffic is stationary or moving slowly, and emergency signals are in use. This measure is designed to ensure rapid response times for emergency services.
Motorcyclists and moped riders will also face updated safety requirements. While wearing approved helmets remains mandatory, they will now need to wear protective gloves and closed footwear that covers the entire foot when riding outside built-up areas.
Electric scooter users and other personal mobility vehicle operators will be required to wear approved helmets on all roads and meet a minimum age requirement of 15. These riders will generally be prohibited from using motorways and other specified roads.
Cyclists will have to adhere to updated rules concerning lane positioning and overtaking. Children under 16 must wear helmets on all roads, and cyclists traveling at night or under poor visibility conditions on interurban roads must equip their bikes with appropriate lighting and reflective gear.
Additional rules will address high-visibility vests, mobile phone use, radar-jamming equipment, and the movement of heavy vehicles. Some provisions, such as daytime lighting requirements for personal mobility vehicles, will take effect later, in October 2027. These comprehensive changes seek to improve road safety and clarify the interaction between motorists and vulnerable road users across Spain.