Driving in Spain This Autumn: Rain, Schools and Safety

As September draws to a close, the weather begins to change. Showers are more frequent, and roads can quickly become slippery. For drivers in Spain — especially those hiring a car and unfamiliar with local conditions — autumn is a time to slow down, stay alert, and pay extra attention around schools.

Prepare your car for autumn

Rain affects both visibility and grip, so the condition of your car is critical:

• Windscreens and wipers: Make sure your windscreen is clean inside and out. Replace worn wiper blades and keep washer fluid topped up. Dirty or streaked glass can make glare far worse at dawn or dusk.
• Tyres: Tread depth must be at least 1.6 mm by law, but more is safer in the wet. Poor tyres increase the risk of aquaplaning. Check for uneven wear and maintain the correct pressure.
• Lights: Ensure all front, rear, and indicator lights are working — they are vital in poor weather.

On the road

• Slow down: Stopping distances increase dramatically in wet conditions. Even with modern safety systems, physics wins.
• Avoid sudden movements: Braking, accelerating, or turning sharply on wet surfaces increases the chance of skidding.
• Watch for puddles: Large pools of water can hide potholes and cause aquaplaning. If you can, steer gently around them — but never swerve suddenly. And always try to avoid splashing pedestrians, particularly near schools.

Near schools

Autumn also means darker mornings and afternoons, often combined with rain. Around schools this creates a dangerous mix: children in dark clothing, reduced visibility, and heavier traffic. In these zones:

• Obey reduced speed limits (often 20–30 km/h).
• Give way to school buses and crossing pedestrians.
• Remember that Local Police at the gates take priority over other signals.
• Be extra cautious of children who may run unexpectedly, sometimes hidden by umbrellas, hoods, or backpacks.

A simple message

Whether you are a resident or a visitor driving a hire car, the rule is simple: in autumn, slow down. Spain’s roads are safe when drivers adapt to conditions — and around schools, vigilance protects the most vulnerable.