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Yes we all know that they drive on the right hand side of the road in Spain
but this is more of a guide based on our knowledge and experience.
Driving on the right when you are not used to it should not present a problem.
You may however need to be extra vigilant driving off after parking on the
wrong side of the road or particularly when joining a road from a single track road i.e.
after any action where you have lost that "driving on the right" thinking.
There are certain items that you should have in your car whilst driving in Spain.
- Two reflective triangles to use as a warning if broken down.
- Reflective jacket to be worn if you get out of your car on the hard shoulder of a motorway.
- Spare light bulbs and fuses along with the tools to change them.
- An Insurance Accident Report form, to be filled in if involved in an accident.
Speed Limits
- Generally 50KPH in built up areas but may be 40 or as low as 20
in residential areas or near a school.
- 90KPH on two way roads
- 100 or 120KPH on dual carriageways and motorways.
- Roads also tend to have speed limits for bends and advisory speed limits if it is
raining (lluvia). In an area where it does not rain very often, it can be surprisingly
slippery when it does rain.
Speed Cameras - yes they do exist in Spain but not in great numbers. I have seen mobile cameras sitting on a tripod and a new fixed one.
The fixed camera was not at all obvious, appearingto be a plain rectangular box, not much morethan twice the height of the crash barrier. This particular one was near a dangerous junction which had clear speed limits.
Other Information
Seat belts are compulsory for front and rear passengers.
It is quite normal for Spanish drivers to hoot or flash their headlights as a
warning when they are about to overtake you.
Spanish drivers tend to follow very close behind the car infront so keep a
good eye on the rear view mirror.
Toll roads - some motorways in Spain are toll roads but signs directing you towards them will
clearly indicate this with the word "Toll".
Some useful Spanish that you may see on road signs
Peligro - Danger
Obras - (Road) Works
Direccion Unica - One Way
Cuidado - (Drive with) Care
Ceda el Paso - Give Way
Aparcamiento - Parking
Gasolina Sin Plomo - Unleaded Petrol
Gasoleo A - Diesel for cars and trucks
Gasoleo B - Tax free Diesel for non road use
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