5 most common road fines in Spain in summer
Driving in flip-flops, eating behind the wheel and throwing rubbish out the window can all result in hefty fines in Spain
When the temperatures heat up for summer in Spain, more and more people begin to take to the open road to bask on the white sandy beaches or cool down in the clear mountain air.
The arrival of summer of course means more traffic on the roads, and the rising temperatures coupled with the increased volume can often mean more road traffic accidents, which is why the DGT plans to intensify its road safety campaign and clamp down on dangerous infractions. Many simple driving faux pas can cost you dearly, both in fines and penalty points, and we’ve listed the top 5 most common fines on Spanish roads during the summer months.
1. Using a mobile phone
Being caught with a mobile phone in your hand whilst driving, even if you aren’t using it, will result in a fine of 200 euros and the loss of 6 points from your driving licence.
The DGT ramped up the penalties for mobile phone use since distractions behind the wheel have been the main cause of fatal road traffic accidents in Spain since 2016.
2. Driving barefoot, in flip-flops, or without a top
These practices are far more common in coastal areas. Wearing open shoes like flip-flops while driving, or going barefoot, is not technically against the law, but if a traffic officer believes this impedes your ability to drive safely, they can fine motorists up to 200 euros.
Likewise, driving without a top on is not officially considered an infraction, but if you strip off behind the wheel to cool down and an officer believes this is causing a distraction, they can issue an 80 euro fine.
3. Eating and drinking
When it’s hot outside and you’re in the middle of a long journey, it’s the most natural thing in the world to cool down with an ice-cream or chilled drink. Once again though, this is an offence that can lead to a fine of up to 200 euros and the loss of two points from your driving licence if a traffic officer believes eating or drinking is resulting in driver distraction.
4. Throwing rubbish out the window
This is another action that will lead to hefty penalties for motorists. Throwing objects on the road that can cause fires (such as cigarette butts) or accidents will translate into a deduction of 6 points and a fine of 500 euros.
5. Not wearing a seatbelt
Officers this summer will deduct 4 points from your driving licence if you are caught without a seatbelt or wearing it incorrectly, and fine you 200 euros. The same penalties are in place for motorcyclists not wearing helmets and for child restraints improperly used.
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