Scenarios in which you can drive a car during the State of Alarm

During the state of alarm we can use the car, but we must do so in a very limited way. The Royal Decree that established the state of alarm and the one that will extend this situation by 15 days includes some very specific points that must be complied with. And personal mobility is one of them, especially as regards the car. So let us review the scenarios in which you can drive a car and the correct way to do it.

Use the car only if it is essential

During the state of alarm free movement is not allowed. This should be understood as a restriction of mobility, since there are scenarios in which driving is permitted, but always responsibly and following the instructions set out by the authorities. In other words, the car is not to be used for just anything. This must be kept in mind. The car should only be used if it is absolutely indispensable.

Using the car to buy supplies

One of the scenarios permitted for travelling by car is buying supplies. Food, basic necessities, medicines, products deemed necessary, and going to work are some of the reasons that will allow you to take the car to get around. It may also be used in the event of a medical emergency or to go to the doctor. It may not be used for non-essential shopping, leisure trips, or any other situation that is not necessary.

You may also drive to your workplace, or to look after dependent or sick people in your care. To attend banking, insurance and other financial services, cars may also be used. And, of course, for reasons of force majeure.

You may also drive to a petrol station and refuel, and even use the car wash, but be careful. As with everything else that can be done with the car, one basic rule must be borne in mind: only one person may be in the car.

Exceptions to individual car use

There are several exceptions to individual car use. These are limited to transporting dependent persons who cannot move on their own. Taking a person to the doctor, to emergency services, or for other justified reasons is also covered. That said, wherever possible there must be a separation between driver and passenger. It is preferable for the passenger to sit in the back seat and with the necessary safety measures.

A question arises regarding sharing the car to go to work. In principle, the same vehicle may not be used to go to work. This could be a handicap, since some people do not have a licence or vehicle to get to work. If a vehicle is shared, an infringement of the state of alarm rules may be incurred and a fine may be imposed.

Nor may a nearby person be driven to work, so if they cannot use public transport, they will not be able to get to work. It is a problem, but we hope this exceptional situation will soon pass and we can return to normal use of our vehicles.

Meanwhile, we can go and fill up the tank, check tyre pressure, and start the engine to prevent the battery from going flat and make sure everything is in order for when the state of alarm ends.