British tourists planning to drive in Spain should be aware of new road markings introduced by the Spanish Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) to enhance road safety.
A continuous red line has been implemented on certain roads to reinforce no-overtaking zones in particularly hazardous areas.
Purpose of the Red Line
The continuous red line serves as a visual reinforcement of existing no-overtaking zones, aiming to reduce accidents in critical sections.
The DGT has introduced this striking color to capture drivers’ attention more effectively, emphasizing the prohibition of overtaking in these areas.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve road safety on conventional roads, where a significant number of serious accidents occur.
Pilot Implementation
The red line marking has been piloted on various roads across Spain, selected based on analyses of driver behavior and accident statistics.
One notable example is the 42-kilometer A-355 road near Coín, Málaga, close to Marbella. This stretch, previously known for a high accident rate, has seen a reduction in fatalities since the introduction of the red line.
The road was originally designed to handle 7,000 vehicles per day but now accommodates nearly 20,000, including a significant number of heavy goods vehicles.
Comparison to UK Road Markings
In the United Kingdom, a double continuous white line indicates that overtaking is prohibited, especially on roads with blind bends or hills where overtaking could be dangerous.
According to Rule 129 of the UK Highway Code, drivers must not cross or straddle these lines unless it is safe and necessary to enter adjoining premises or a side road.
Exceptions are made to pass stationary vehicles, or to overtake pedal cycles, horses, or road maintenance vehicles traveling at 10 mph (16 km/h) or less.
Penalties for Non-Compliance in Spain
The Royal Automobile Club of Spain (RACE) reminds drivers that violating the overtaking ban, regardless of the color of the continuous line, can result in fines of up to €400 and the loss of four points on a driving license.
This penalty is stipulated in the General Traffic Regulations and is applied equally to both white and red continuous lines.
Additional Safety Measures
The introduction of the red line is part of a comprehensive plan to enhance road safety in Spain. This plan includes the installation of new section radars, reinforcement of awareness campaigns, and increased presence of traffic agents on secondary roads.
These measures aim to address the high number of serious accidents occurring on conventional roads.
Recommendations for British Tourists
- Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with Spanish road markings and traffic regulations before driving.
- Adhere to Signage: Pay close attention to road markings, especially continuous red or white lines indicating no-overtaking zones.
- Plan Routes Carefully: Be aware of roads with high accident rates and increased traffic, and exercise caution when traveling on these routes.
- Comply with Speed Limits: Observe posted speed limits and adjust your driving according to road and traffic conditions.
By understanding and respecting these new road markings and regulations, British tourists can contribute to safer driving experiences while traveling in Spain.
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