You’d be forgiven for thinking that shedding your shirt on a scorching summer’s day behind the wheel is a harmless act. After all, Spain’s traffic laws don’t explicitly ban going topless while driving. However, the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), Spain’s traffic authority, views it as a potentially dangerous practice that could land you with a hefty fine.
Contents
The Law and Your Shirt
While there’s no specific “no shirt” rule, the DGT refers to articles 3.1, 17.1, and 18.1 of the Código de Circulación (the Spanish Highway Code). These articles broadly state that any action hindering safe driving for either the driver or other vehicle occupants can lead to a penalty. This is why things like inappropriate footwear and, yes, driving without a shirt, can be deemed sanctionable.
Why It’s Risky
So, why the fuss? The DGT highlights several key dangers:
Seatbelt Injuries: In the event of a sudden stop or collision, a seatbelt comes into direct contact with bare skin. This can cause severe abrasions and injuries that would be mitigated by a layer of clothing.
Glass and Other Hazards: Should an accident occur, exposed skin is far more vulnerable to cuts from shattered glass or other debris.
Sunburn: Prolonged exposure to the sun while driving can lead to painful sunburn, which can be distracting and uncomfortable, impacting your ability to concentrate.
Post-Accident Issues: Being topless after a breakdown or accident can present practical difficulties, especially if you need to interact with emergency services or other drivers.
It’s crucial to remember these risks apply to all occupants of the vehicle, not just the driver.
Potential Penalties
The severity of the fine depends on how dangerous the officer perceives your actions to be. A minor infringement might result in an €80 fine. However, if the risk is considered greater, you could face a fine of up to €200 and the loss of three points from your driving licence.
Beyond the Shirt
The DGT’s emphasis on safe driving posture and being properly secured in the vehicle extends beyond just wearing a shirt. Actions like leaning an arm out of the window or, even worse, a passenger putting their feet on the dashboard, are highly dangerous and also carry penalties. The latter, in particular, can lead to catastrophic injuries in a collision. Essentially, anything that compromises your, your passengers’, your goods’, or even your pets’ security in the vehicle, including not being appropriately dressed, can result in a fine.
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