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5 most common fines for motorhome drivers in Spain
Caravan and campervan drivers face fines of up to 6,000 euros in Spain for some common mistakes
Motorhome travel has become an increasingly popular way to explore Spain, offering visitors a sense of freedom that can only be found on the open road. The sometimes prohibitive cost of petrol and diesel aside, campervan drivers must also abide by the traffic regulations, or face costly fines for many common infractions.
1. Parking
For parking purposes, a motorhome is considered the same as a normal car and so must fit comfortably inside the marked lines on the road and adapt to the particular regulations of each municipality. If a camper is parked outside the lines, or in any other way incorrectly, the fines can range anywhere from 80 to 200 euros, depending on the seriousness of the infraction.
2. Camping
Camping overnight in a motorhome is treated differently to just parking up temporarily. According to the DGT, as a general rule, camping is strictly prohibited except in specifically designated areas.
The Traffic authorities consider parking to include extending the perimeter of the motor home by erecting an awning or placing chairs and tables outside and the fine can amount to as much as 6,000 euros if this is done in a protected area.
3. Speeding
Speeding is the most common offence on Spanish roads and the same rules and penalties apply to campervan drivers. The speed limit in Spain is 120km/h for highways and motorways, and 90km/h for secondary roads. Failure to comply with these regulations carries a fine ranging from 100 to 600 euros.
4. Seatbelts
Although motorhomes come equipped with beds and armchairs, it is expressly forbidden to use these while the vehicle is in motion and passengers must belt up correctly in the front of the van.
The fine for breaching this rule is 200 euros and the deduction of 4 points from a Spanish driving license.
5. Exceeding the load
Just like cars, motorhomes have a Maximum Authorised Mass (MMA) which is clearly stated on the ITV card and in the manufacturer’s manual. Exceeding this limit increases the risk of the camper not braking properly and drivers can be fined between 301 and 4,000 euros if the total MMA is exceeded by 25%.
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