Tourists could be fined £425 in Benidorm if they do this one thing

Benidorm, a favourite destination for British holidaymakers, saw over 800,000 UK visitors flock to the Spanish resort last year. However, tourists are now being cautioned that they could face a hefty £425 (€500) penalty as authorities clamp down on mobility scooter usage, which gained popularity through characters like Madge from the hit ITV series Benidorm, reports Birmingham Live.

The crackdown comes amid "increasing complaints" regarding the misuse of mobility scooters, with reports of individuals racing along the beachfront at speeds close to "30-40mph". The problem seems to stem from vacationers "renting them just for fun", prompting local officials to insist on their use solely by those with legitimate mobility issues.

Lee Cartwright, a mobility scooter expert at Mobility Solutions Direct, highlighted some key guidelines for using mobility scooters in Benidorm to avoid facing a £425 fine or having the scooter confiscated.

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He said: "Benidorm is beloved by UK tourists, drawing millions of British visitors annually. However, the resort is facing issues due to its popularity, particularly with the increasing complaints about mobility scooters.

"Problems arise from people renting them just for fun. The local council has expressed a desire for these scooters to be used responsibly and only for genuine needs."

Mobility scooters in Benidorm - what are the rules?

Don't use a scooter if you don't need it

Lee stated that those aged 55 and over were permitted to use mobility scooters, essentially designed to assist individuals with walking disabilities. He further indicated that those under this age with mobility issues also had these provisions.

However, he cautioned: "If you can walk safely without one and you don't have a permit for one, it is best not to ride a mobility scooter to avoid an unnecessary fine."

Respecting the speed limit

The use of mobility scooters on pavements is strictly limited to individuals suffering from mobility issues, with a speed cap of roughly 4mph, matching general walking pace. A 12mph limit is enforced when operating on roads, with helmet usage being mandatory at all times.

Lee said: "Most mobility scooters are designed with a speed limit for safe travel."

Avoiding alcohol whilst in control

Using a scooter while intoxicated constituted both a danger and a violation of the law, as per Lee's remarks.

He said: "The majority of those using a scooter without permission are young British people who are using the vehicle to go clubbing rather than pay for a taxi.

"But this results in reckless driving, such as weaving through traffic, driving too closely to others, and failing to be aware of their surroundings. Riding a scooter while intoxicated is both hazardous and against the law, similar to driving a car under the influence."