DGT tips for driving safely in snow and on icy roads in Spain
A guide to driving in adverse weather conditions in winter in Spain
When winter comes in Spain, it’s important for drivers to know how to safely manage low temperatures, driving rain and heavy snowfall. The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has issued a series of recommendations for people forced to drive in adverse weather conditions.
First and foremost, the traffic authorities have advised that anyone in areas with heavy snowfall should avoid driving unless it is absolutely necessary. The DGT provides regular updates on weather and road conditions, so before embarking on a journey, drivers should check the official website, their Twitter account or phone 011.
Snowfall warnings
The DGT uses colours to depict the condition of the road and maximum speed limits when it is snowing:
- Green: a maximum of 100 km/h on motorways and 80 on other roads. Trucks should remain in the right-hand lane
- Yellow: a maximum 60 km/h. Trucks are prohibited
- Red: Only vehicles with snow chains or winter tyres are allowed at a maximum speed of 30 km/h
- Black: Circulation prohibited
â„ï¸ Los colores de la #nieve en el #tráfico:
— Dir. Gral. Tráfico (@DGTes) November 22, 2021
🟢 A 100 km/h máximo en autopista/autovía y 80 en el resto. Camiones por la derecha.
🟡 Máximo 60 km/h. Prohibido circular a camiones.
🔴 Solo con cadenas o neumáticos de invierno. 30 km/h máximo.
âš« Circulación prohibida. pic.twitter.com/DPaX1cBBJu
Driving in the snow
- Cars that don’t have winter tyres must always carry a set of chains in areas of heavy snow.
- Before setting off on a journey, snow should be thoroughly cleared from windshields and headlights; the fender should also be cleaned as a build-up of snow can affect the steering.
- If a driver knows that their destination is a stormy area, the DGT advises them to carry an extra set of warm clothes, food, water and a charged mobile phone and to ensure they have a full tank of gas.
- In general, when driving in the snow, speed must be considerably reduced and the safety distance should be increased.
Image: Archive
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