[REVISION HISTORY]

Spain traffic regulation and safety reforms

Updated 5 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-12 06:22 UTC → 2026-09-16 16:31 UTC · added ~~removed~~

As the October 1, 2026, implementation date for Spain’s General Traffic Regulations approaches, new technical and procedural details have emerged under Royal Decree 518/2026. The reforms, overseen by the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), aim to increase safety for vulnerable road users through specific infrastructure and equipment mandates. Regarding motorway congestion, the mandatory central emergency lane will be configured based on lane count: on highways with two lanes in one direction, the lane will be formed in the center; on highways with three or more lanes, it will be positioned between the leftmost lane and the adjacent lane. New rules also address winter conditions: when snow covers asphalt on highways or motorways, overtaking is strictly prohibited. Drivers must use the rightmost lane, and in sections with three or more lanes, they may use the adjacent lane, but the leftmost lanes must remain clear for emergency vehicles and snowplows. Failure to comply is a serious infraction carrying a 200 euro fine. Motorcyclists remain permitted to use the right shoulder in authorized, signaled sections during stationary traffic, provided they maintain a single-file column, do not exceed 30 km/h, and yield to emergency or maintenance vehicles. Equipment updates include mandatory protective gloves and the prohibition of open footwear for motorcyclists on interurban roads. Riders must also carry a high-visibility reflective vest. For users of Personal Mobility Vehicles (VMP), such as electric scooters, a minimum age of 15 is required, along with mandatory helmet use and reflective vests during night or low-visibility conditions. While 24-hour lighting for VMPs is required, this specific mandate will not become compulsory until 2027. Cyclists face stricter overtaking protocols. Motorists must maintain a 1.5-meter lateral distance in urban areas and a 5-meter gap when traveling in the same lane. ~~On interurban roads, drivers must reduce their speed by at least 20 km/h when passing a cyclist.~~

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