Harsher penalties for speeding were introduced on Spanish roads in May, coming into effect in June. Those found to be driving too fast could face fines of up to €500, and the loss of six licence points, for being just 1km per hour above the speed limit.
“Very serious” speeding offences will result in up to a €600 fine and six points on a driving licence.
While the maximum speed limit on normal roads is 90kmph, the speed limit on some motorways has also been increased from 120kmph to 130kmph. In some towns however, the limit is being reduced from 30kmph to 20kmph.
The Spanish police now does not need to stop a car in order to prosecute, but can just note its registration number.
There is now a minimum fine of €1,000 if you are found to be more than double the drink drive limit of 0.5mg, unless you passed your test within the last two years, or are a professional driver, in which case it is 0.3mg. The fine also applies if you are a repeat drink -driving offender, if you refuse to take the breathalyser test or if you are driving under the influence of drugs.
To receive a 50 per cent discount on your fine you must pay within 15 days rather than the 20-day limit which previously existed.
“Driving abroad can be daunting for some motorists,” said Ken McCall, managing director at Europcar, citing a recent survey by Travelsupermarket which suggested that 75 per cent of women have never driven abroad and almost half said that they won’t bother too.
“In contrast, men are more likely to break the law when driving abroad but that could result in them coming home with more than a suntan.
“We advise drivers to familiarise themselves with the driving laws of any countries they are visiting if they’re planning to drive either their own car or a hire car. Whichever country you are visiting, don’t get caught out by assuming that foreigners will be exempt from the law. Make sure you do your homework before arriving at your destination so that you remember the trip for all the right reasons.”
