Keeping up
with the driving laws
in Spain
For holidaymakers and
people looking to move to
Spain, it is important to keep
on top of the ever-changing
laws – particularly those
relating to driving.
The Spanish government has recently
approved changes in traffic law with the
main aim being, in theory, to reduce
the amount of accidents on Spanish
territory. I say in theory, as critics of the
changes say it is more about recovering
funds, especially as penalties have
increased. However, statistics show
that tougher traffic norms in Spain have
reduced accident rate considerably
since the 90’s (6,000 deaths per year
in 1990 compared with approximately
1,128 at the end of 2013).
The new Traffic Law is not yet in force
as it has not been published in the
Government Official Bulletin. Once
published, we will see subsequent
regulations developing its content.
However, if you are planning a driving
holiday in Spain or living there, you
may want to check whether some of the
following points are already in force.
Current regulations already establish
that you are obliged to carry certain
items in the car. Under Spanish law, it is
compulsory to carry a reflective waistcoat
and wear it if you stop at the side of the
road. You must carry two approved red
warning triangles, a full set of spare
bulbs, fuses and a spare wheel. If you
wear glasses, make sure you also have
a spare set in the car. Also, do not forget
that the first thing F