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.
Cyclists are vulnerable road users, but when riding on the road they are still classed as vehicle drivers. This means traffic laws apply in full — a fact that is often misunderstood.
Electric scooters have become a popular way for teenagers and young adults to get around.
Coloured flags on Guardia Civil motorcycles serve a distinct and vital role in managing traffic flow on roads, particularly when unforeseen incidents or events occur.
With nearly 80% of Spaniards experiencing some form of vision problem, and drivers relying on their eyes for 80% of driving information, good eyesight is paramount for road safety. Vision often degrades gradually, making regular eye tests crucial. If you wear corrective lenses, always use them while driving and consider progressive lenses for dashboard clarity. Be cautious driving at night or in poor conditions if you experience difficulties, and always reduce speed, as higher speeds limit your field of vision. Remember, certain medications and even dilated pupils can impair your ability to drive safely. Good visual acuity, field, and contrast sensitivity are vital for distinguishing road hazards and can be affected by various conditions like cataracts or diabetes. Always ensure your vision meets legal requirements for driving, and keep a spare pair of glasses handy if you wear them.
The Spanish Government has approved an update to its official catalogue of traffic signs, effective July 1, 2025. This reform adapts signage to modern social, technological, and mobility changes, introducing new signs for personal mobility vehicles, updating pictograms, and removing obsolete ones. The gradual physical replacement of signs aims for a unified, clearer, and more inclusive road signage system across the country.