Traffic rules Spain
Spain has a very well developed track network with a total length of around 664 000 kilometers.
Most of the traffic rules in Spain are not significantly different from those in the German-speaking countries. But some provisions are somewhat different. Quite apart from the discipline on Spanish streets, which leaves much to be desired. The situation has improved, however, since the police have been more strictly controlled. Traffic offenders face severe penalties. SPAIN LIVE has compiled the most important Spanish traffic rules.
Towing: Anyone who is left with a breakdown can not be towed by another car. You must always call a towing service whose service in Spain is usually included in the car insurance.
Alcohol: The alcohol limit is 0.5 in the blood and 0.25 in the breath. For drivers (less than two years in possession of a driving license), the limit value is 0.3 per thousand in the blood and 0.15 per thousand in the air.
Equipment: Two warriors when the car is registered in Spain. It is sufficient for a vehicle with foreign approval. Fire extinguishers are not required. But a warning vest at least for the driver, which must also attract those outside closed localities in case of breakdown or accident. A reserve tire or tire repair kit must also be on board.
Drugs: Anyone who is driven and caught after drug consumption must be faced with high fines, just as with alcoholic driving. The mere detection of drugs in the body is sufficient for punishment; So there is no limit rule.
Cyclists: For cyclists, helmets are required outside of localities. On country roads, reflective clothing or a warning vest is also required at dusk and in the dark.
Within helmets, helmets are required for cyclists under the age of 16, and the helmet is recommended for all others.
Two cyclists may ride side by side on country roads. Whether this is advisable in the face of the recklessness of many drivers, remains set.
In general, cyclists in Spain should be particularly cautious, as they are still regarded as exotics on the roads and many motorists are not accustomed to cycling travelers. Especially on Majorca, where many tourists swing on the wheel, serious accidents happen again and again.
Motorists must maintain a safety distance of at least 1.5 meters when overtaking cyclists. In the event of overtaking maneuvers, the cars may, exceptionally, pass through the continuous white line, but only to the extent that the oncoming traffic is not jeopardized.
Speed: Normally, speed 50 is within places and cities. On narrow country roads 90 can be driven, if the country road is well developed (with a side strip of at least 1.50 meters) also 100. On highways is the maximum speed with 120 hours kilometers. The maximum speed is always indicated by signs. For motorhomes, cars with trailers and trucks, the speed limit is 90, on elevated country roads 80 and on narrow country roads 70.
Seat belts and child seats: Of course there is a mandatory seat for all drivers. All children less than 1.35 meters or younger than 12 years must travel in a special child seat and sit behind when there is room.
Mobile phone: Mobile phones must not be used while driving, unless a built-in hands-free car kit is used for telephoning.
Light: Low beam is not mandatory for cars. However, it is increasingly recommended by the Spanish road authorities, especially on country roads, on covered days and in the darker season.
Papers: The minimum age for motorists in Spain is 18 years. Every driver is obliged to carry driving licenses, vehicle papers and insurance documents with him. Vehicles registered in Spain must also carry the TÜV report, which is called ITV in Spain.
Tourists from EU countries can easily travel with their domestic driving licenses in Spain.
Special rules apply to foreign residents in Spain: In principle, like Spanish drivers, they must regularly perform the prescribed health tests in the country. This is due to the fact that all foreign driving license holders residing in Spain fall under the Spanish driving license. This also means that foreign resident drivers can be burdened or even penalized with traffic offenses.
Residents must also be aware of the following: Holders of German and Austrian driving licenses who still have an unlimited license must be registered with the competent Spanish road traffic authority