With the exception of areas where prohibitions apply, the roads of Spain are considered shared spaces, where vehicles of all different sizes and characteristics can circulate with equal right, but with rights come responsibilities, and we each must play our part in ensuring the safe flow of traffic.
When it comes to the size and characteristics of a vehicle, amongst the most vulnerable are cyclists, to which we also include e-scooter users more recently, but for the time being we are focussing on cyclists.
It is fair to say that many car drivers don’t like cyclists, and of those, unfortunately, some put those vulnerable road users in a dangerous position by not respecting the rules. That said, it is also true that some cyclists also add and fuel the problem for the same reason, not respecting the rules.
People who ride bicycles end up suffering the worse consequences of a collision and are the ones who come out worst. In 2022, the last year for which we have completed data, a total of 44 cyclists died in Spain and the DGT has set out to lower this figure.
One basic rule that the DGT would like to remind cyclists of is that on a general road they should ride on the right-hand side wherever possible.
Plus, if the road conditions allow, cyclists are permitted to ride two abreast, but are required to always ride in single file if the road is not clearly visible or overtaking is not possible, or they impede the flow of traffic. Cyclists can even be fined for posing a danger to road safety, leading to a fine.
It is not only the cyclists who need reminding though, as other vehicle users are also at risk of a fine for putting cyclists in danger, and vehicles must respect the minimum distance of 1.5 metres when overtaking or they also risk a fine. On a road consisting of two lanes or more in the same direction, you must move entirely over to the second lane to pass.
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