The new norms and laws for driving in Spain formed part of the package of measures introduced in March 2022, however, some of the measures did not come into force until the second half of this year.
There appears to be some misinformation going around about NEW laws and norms. Below is the article published in Nexonr in March 2022 . All these new norms and laws are now in force.
NEW TRAFFIC LAW INTRODUCED IN MARCH 2022
The new package of Traffic Laws aims to increase the penalties points for “behaviour and attitudes” which represent the major risk for drivers and include a ban on holding a mobile phone or using earphones when driving.
In 2020, 31% of accidents were attributed to using a mobile or other means of communication at the wheel.
The Government claims the introduction of the points system on driving licences in 2006 is a “valid tool” to reduce accidents. The evidence corroborates this as in 2005 there were 3,268 road deaths, before the points system was introduced, but in 2006 this fell to 2,989 and in 2021 to 1,004.
There are 50 changes in the new law and these are the main points:
HOLDING A MOBILE AT THE WHEEL
It is prohibited to hold a mobile phone at the wheel or a navigator or any other means of communication while driving. Helmets and earphones are also banned. Hands free devices are permitted. Motorcyclists must not wear a mobile phone device between the helmet and their head.
Penalty 3 to 6 points. 200 euro fine.
| INTERCOMMUNICATION BETWEEN MOTORCYCLISTS This will be authorized, using certified equipment designed for communication and navigations. INADEQUATE USE OF SEATBELT, INFANT SEATS AND HELMETS SAFE AND EFFICIENT DRIVING COURSES RECOVERING POINTS |
EXCEEDING SPEED LIMIT FOR OVERTAKING
On conventional roads drivers may no longer exceed the speed limit by 20kph in order to overtake.
FAILURE TO RESPECT OFFICERS AND INFORMATION PANELS
It will be an offence to fail to respect the signs or orders of a police officer or anyone charged with controlling traffic as well as information panels (on motorways and main roads etc).
PRIORITY FOR PEDESTRIANS
Pedestrians have priority on pedestrian crossings:
Bicycles nor electric bicycles must not use pavements
OVERTAKING CYCLISTS
In order to overtake a cyclist or electric cycle drivers must allow a distance of 1.5metres. If the road has two or more carriageways vehicles are obliged to change carriageways in order to overtake.
Penalty 6 points and 200 euro fine.
PARKING IN A CYCLE LANE
It is strictly prohibited that any vehicle parks in a cycle lane.
ELECTRIC SCOOTERS ON MOTORWAYS
Electric scooters may not circulate on motorways.
PERSONAL MOBILITY VEHICLES
The norms for education programme for using personal mobiliity vehicles, bicycles or vehicles are approved.
RADAR INHIBITORS
Using or installing a radar inhibitor or any other instrument designed to elude or interfere with traffic systems restricting or recording traffic or that emit or warn of radar equipment are illegal.
ZERO ALCOHOL FOR UNDER 18 DRIVERS
There is a zero alcohol limit for anyone under 18 years driving a bicycle, electric scooter etc with permit AM or A1.
CIRCULATE IN AREAS RESTRICTED FOR CONTAMINATION OR ZBE
It is obligatory to respect restrictions on circulation during episodes of contamination and in low emission zones (ZBE)
THROWING AWAY CIGARETTE BUTTS
Drivers will lose six, rather than four, points for throwing a cigarette butt, or any other object that may cause a fire, out of the car window.
COPYING DRIVING EXAMS
All methods of intercommunication during driving tests/exams or courses for recovering points will be banned, carry fines and an exclusion from examination for six months or impersonating someone else.
Penalty 500 euro fine.
DRIVING LICENCE ON YOUR MOBILE
The application miDGT which confirms authorisation to drive is permitted.
Editor´s Note.
Fines and penalty points included where indicated.
