Police campaign with checks on bikes and personal mobility vehicles

03/07/2023 - 12:02 h

Safety and prevention. The campaign gets under way today and ends on Sunday.

The specific goal of this operation is to monitor the correct use and circulation of bikes, personal mobility vehicles and cycles with more than two wheels. The campaign will also focus on the obligations of pedestrians and riders and drivers of other types of motor vehicles in relation to cyclists and PMV riders.

The week-long campaign will be conducted citywide, paying special attention to the seafront and cycles with more than two wheels. This includes cycles with or without assisted pedalling which operate as commercial rickshaws without a licence.

Checks will be made to control circulation which poses a risk, inappropriate parking and distractions while riding, particularly where this puts pedestrians in danger.

Other infringements to be penalised include jumping red traffic lights, not respecting pedestrian crossings (with or without traffic lights) and the right of pedestrians to circulate safely using pavements.

It’s worth remembering that you must be at least 16 to ride a PMV and over 18 to do so carrying passengers. Riders are not allowed to wear headphones connected to devices reproducing sound or to use mobile phones while riding.

Administrative inspections will also be carried out at premises and establishments renting out PMVs, with other checks to control conduct from other riders and drivers which affects cyclists and PMV users: stopping or parking in bike lanes, overtaking without respecting safety distances etc.

The campaign is being planned and coordinated by the Catalan Traffic Service with local police forces and the Mossos d’Esquadra corps. The last campaign of this type in Barcelona was conducted between 16 and 22 February and resulted in 1,051 formal denouncements.