This is what the new traffic fines look like

The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) is updating the format of its sanction notices in order to improve the information provided about the notice

Although the DGT has been using a new format in its communications since last May, it will be this summer when the agency responsible for traffic and road safety begins sending the new fines for speeding offences.

As we noted, the new fine format began its first phase of implementation in May. The first drivers to receive these new fines were those sanctioned for driving without the mandatory insurance.

The rollout of the new fine models will take place progressively throughout this year, with speeding fines being the next to adopt this new look. Undoubtedly, it is then that the informational documents bearing this new design will have the greatest impact and reach.

As for this type of sanction, speeding fines will continue to include photographs and the certificate from the speed camera that detected the offence.

More than 30 years of black-and-white fines

Until 2019, the traditional traffic fines had followed the same layout since no less than 1988.

Three decades have been more than enough to assess the level of information and the clarity of the texts included, which have led to the renewal of their format and an improvement in quality of the content of these new traffic fines.

In the words of Concepción Guerrero, deputy director of Resources at the DGT, updating the documents sent aims to ensure that the information reaches the recipient more directly, “at first glance”.

In this way, the aim is to simplify and make it faster to recognise, from the place where the incident occurred, the type of offence, the amount of the fine, whether the sanction involves the loss of DGT points, and the steps to follow after receiving the notice.

The new fines use colour printing and feature simpler legal language. In addition, instructional text is included to encourage awareness and correction of driving behaviour that leads to sanctions, with the aim of improving road safety.