Car Park Rules in Spain: Why Traffic Laws Still Apply
Car parks in Spain often feel informal, but when they are open to the public, the same traffic laws apply as on the road. Ignoring signs or markings can result in fines — and collisions.
Car parks in Spain often feel informal, but when they are open to the public, the same traffic laws apply as on the road. Ignoring signs or markings can result in fines — and collisions.
The New Year often brings new bikes and electric scooters onto Spain’s roads. For riders and other road users alike, January is a critical time to reset expectations, practise safely, and remain especially vigilant.
In Spain, pedestrians do not always have priority, except at marked crossings or when vehicles turn across their path. Tourists should note that pedestrians must use crossings where available, and drivers must stop when someone is waiting to cross.
In general terms, traffic law still applies in car parks, and other locations such…
Spanish Traffic Law applies to all public and communal roads, whether on public or private land. This includes areas commonly used by an indeterminate community of users, such as supermarket carparks. Here, traffic regulations governing vehicle movement, safety, and driver qualifications, including vehicle inspections and valid insurance, are mandatory. Violations, such as not wearing a seatbelt, are punishable, even on rural or unmarked roads. The law pertains to all areas of common use, enforcing the same standards as in publicly accessible spaces.