UK tourists warned over four new motorway laws for drivers in Spain

UK tourists in Spain face a brand new driving law, it has been warned. Drivers, motorists and road users heading out to the European Union to drive face a major shake up to how motorways work in the go-to holiday hotspot and destination.

Spain will implement significant changes to motorway regulations aimed at enhancing road safety and traffic flow across the country, including, where applicable, here in the Canary Islands. The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has introduced new rules concerning the use of the left-hand lane and overtaking practices.

It includes: left-lane usage enforcement, overtaking restrictions, enhanced safety measures for emergency situations and new provisions for motorbikes too. The rules explain that, under the new regulations, drivers are required to return to the right-hand lane immediately after overtaking.

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Failure to do so will result in a €200 fine, though no points will be deducted from the driver's licence. The DGT has also prohibited overtaking on the left during severe weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow or ice.

The DGT also mandates that drivers create a "life-saving corridor" by moving to their respective sides of the road during emergencies. This practice allows ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles to navigate through traffic more efficiently, potentially saving lives.

And starting in 2025, motorcyclists will be permitted to use the hard shoulder during traffic jams, provided they do not exceed 30 km/h and yield to other vehicles, such as bicycles, that may also be using the shoulder, it has also gone on to be confirmed.

This change aims to alleviate congestion and improve traffic flow during peak times. Motorcycles will be permitted to use the hard shoulder to overtake the traffic buildup at a maximum of 30 kph. There will also be campaigns by the Guardia Civil to impose stricter control and fines.