If you have questions about this topic, this article is for you!
On May 19, 2025, Decree-Law No. 26/2025 came into force, transposing a European directive. Its main change is to introduce compulsory motor vehicle liability insurance for certain light electric vehicles. However, liability insurance for electric scooters is not compulsory for all users; this requirement only applies to scooters that reach speeds of over 25 km/h or have a power output of over 250 watts.
What does the insurance cover?
Compulsory civil liability insurance covers:
- Material damage to vehicles, real estate, and public or private property;
- Bodily injury to persons involved;
- Medical expenses, repairs, and compensation.
What are the consequences of driving without insurance?
For vehicles that meet the criteria of the decree-law, driving without insurance indicates:
- Fines between €250 and €1,250;
- Vehicle seizure;
- Direct liability for all damages and legal costs, without coverage.
Situation of shared scooters
Scooters from services such as Bolt already include civil liability and personal accident insurance, paid for by the companies, and users are covered during their contracted journeys.
Final recommendations
- Check the weight, speed, and power in the manual or on the manufacturer's website;
- If it qualifies as a "light motor vehicle," purchase the mandatory insurance;
- Even if you are not required to, consider taking out voluntary insurance;
- Shared scooters are already covered;
- Always obey the Highway Code.