► the DO's and DON'Ts of DRIVING in Spain 🇪🇸 #003

Summary

This comprehensive video script provides essential tips for a smooth and enjoyable road trip experience in Spain. It covers practical advice on navigating the country's unique driving conventions, understanding road types, speed limits, and traffic laws. Additionally, it offers guidance on handling situations like roundabouts, cyclists, parking, and pedestrian crossings. The script emphasizes safety measures, such as wearing seatbelts, avoiding drinking and driving, and being cautious around speed traps. It also touches upon cultural nuances, like respecting local customs and being mindful during bank holidays. Overall, the script aims to equip travelers with the knowledge and confidence to embark on a hassle-free and memorable road trip adventure across the captivating landscapes of Spain.

Takeaways

• 👣 Familiarize yourself with driving on the right-hand side of the road and using the metric system for distances, speeds, and fuel measurements in Spain.
• 🚫 Never turn right on a red light or drive through a red light, as it is strictly prohibited in Spain.
• ⛽ Keep your fuel tank topped up, especially when driving in remote areas, as the distance between gas stations can be substantial.
• 🍷 Strictly avoid drinking and driving, as Spain has strict laws and severe penalties for driving under the influence.
• 🚗 Understand the different types of roads in Spain, such as autopistas (toll motorways), autovías (free motorways), and national/regional roads.
• ⚠️ Obey speed limits, which vary depending on the road type, and watch out for speed traps and cameras.
• 🚲 Exercise caution when driving near cyclists, maintaining a safe distance and reduced speed when overtaking them.
• 📵 Never use a mobile phone while driving, as it is illegal and can result in fines.
• 🔄 Learn how to navigate roundabouts correctly, following the right-of-way rules and using indicators.
• 🚨 Pay any fines on the spot or within 20 days to receive a 50% discount, and respect pedestrian crossings at all times.

Q & A

What measurement system is used in Spain for distances and speeds?

Spain uses the decimal system, meaning distances and speeds are measured in kilometres and kilometres per hour, respectively.

Can you turn right on red lights in Spain?

No, turning right on red lights is not allowed in Spain. Red means stop, and you can only proceed when the light is green or blinking.

What types of gas can you find at Spanish service stations, and what are their equivalents?

At Spanish service stations, you can find 'sin plomo 95' (regular unleaded), 'sin plomo 98' (premium unleaded), and 'gasóleo' or 'diesel' (diesel).

What is the legal blood alcohol level for driving in Spain?

The legal blood alcohol level in Spain is slightly above 0.5 grams per litre in the bloodstream.

What are the common speed limits on different types of roads in Spain?

The common speed limits in Spain are 120 km/h on motorways (autopistas or autovías), 90 km/h on conventional roads, and 50 km/h in cities, with some single-lane streets having limits of 30 km/h or less.

How should you behave around cyclists on Spanish roads?

Maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 meters when overtaking cyclists, and the speed at which you overtake should be 20 km/h less than the maximum speed limit of the road.

What are the consequences of using a mobile phone while driving in Spain?

Using a mobile phone while driving in Spain can result in fines and more severe consequences if an accident occurs while you are using the phone.

What is the rule for navigating roundabouts in Spain?

In Spain, the vehicle already in the roundabout has the right of way over those waiting to enter. You should use indicators to show your intention to exit the roundabout.

What is the discount policy for paying fines on the spot in Spain?

If you pay a fine on the spot in Spain, you can receive a 50% discount. This discount also applies if you pay within 20 calendar days.

What should you consider when parking in Spanish cities?

Parking in Spanish cities can be challenging due to various rules and regulations, so it's important to be aware of the local parking laws and guidelines.