The most common traffic fines that can ruin your holiday

When holidays come around, many of us grab the car and hit the road to enjoy our time off somewhere far from home and our workplace. That is why Spain’s roads fill up with vehicles travelling, sometimes hundreds of kilometres, in a very short time. This is even more so when it comes to short breaks such as the Pilar bridge long weekend or the public holidays of each autonomous community. Many cars in a short time means more danger on the road and, of course, more traffic checks.

In this article we are going to review some of the penalties we may encounter during these journeys and which can catch us without our barely noticing. Quite often we are not aware that we are breaking some regulation and do not realise that this situation can land us in trouble. These are some of the moments when we may get a fine.

Speeding, the most common offence

This often happens through inattention. We know there are stretches where the speed limit is somewhat lower than the general standard. And there are usually speed cameras waiting for the absent-minded driver who does not slow down enough, whether because they did not see the signage or for some other reason. And the fine is ready. Penalties in this case can range from 100 to 600 euros, plus the loss of between 2 and 6 points from the licence.

If the speeding is more than 50% over the legal limit, it becomes a criminal offence, which can bring more serious consequences for the driver. If the offence is running a red light, it means a 200 euro fine, overtaking across a solid white line costs 400 euros, and parking in the wrong place can mean a penalty of up to 200 euros. It is better to take things calmly and not tempt fate.

Vehicle documentation, always on hand and up to date

At a traffic checkpoint the officer will ask for the documentation relating to the car and its mechanical condition. That is, you need more than just the driving licence, without which you cannot drive. You also need all the vehicle paperwork: the registration certificate and a valid MOT (ITV). The penalty for carrying an expired document is 200 euros, while driving with a failed ITV inspection carries a fine of 500 euros. Driving without insurance is punished with fines of up to 3,000 euros, and officers may even immobilise the car.

The seatbelt, it saves lives and avoids fines

The seatbelt is the most important passive safety feature in a car. Its presence and use save many lives each year, since it protects the person wearing it in a collision. For that reason it is important to wear it at all times, even on journeys where there seems to be no danger or risk. And it matters even when you have had no accident or collision. Not wearing it can bring a penalty of 200 euros and the loss of 3 points from the licence. Every occupant of the vehicle must wear one, because if a passenger does not use theirs, they too will be committing an offence and the amount of the fine will be the same.

The phone when stopped, and alcohol when not driving

The phone is one of the most common sources of distraction for the driver. It is best to keep your mobile switched off during the journey and plan some stops to stretch your legs and, while you are at it, check any calls or messages that may have come in while driving. This way you avoid distractions and can enjoy a more relaxed trip. The fine for being “caught” using a mobile phone is 200 euros plus the loss of three points from the licence.

As for alcohol, forget it. It dulls the senses, slows reactions and causes distraction. Drinking and driving is one of the most common causes of accidents. Fines for exceeding the alcohol limit, set at 0.25 milligrams per litre of breath, can amount to up to 1,000 euros and the loss of four to six points from the licence. In addition, if you try to evade a Guardia Civil checkpoint, you can face up to 200 euros more and the loss of four points from the licence.

And bear in mind all the consequences that being involved in a road accident can bring. Going faster does not always get you there sooner, and not wearing your seatbelt does not make the journey any calmer. Patience, calm, frequent stops and no distractions or alcohol. And enjoy your free time.