If You’re Driving a Rental Car

Pedestrians always get a full green light. If people are crossing, you must have a red. No more flashing amber that lets you “creep through”. → If someone is crossing, you stop. Always.

Emergency corridor is now mandatory. In heavy traffic, cars must move aside to create a clear lane for ambulances. → Just follow the flow: everyone shifts outward, leaving a gap in the middle.

Passing breakdowns or accidents:

Slow down 20 km/h below the limit.

Give 1.5 metres of space. → Police are enforcing this heavily.

V‑16 emergency beacon replaces triangles. Your rental car should have a yellow roof beacon. → If you break down, place it on the roof and stay inside on motorways.

If You’re Cycling

Cars must give you 1.5 metres and slowdown 20 km/h below the limit when overtaking.

You can ride in the centre of the lane in towns.

On narrow 30 km/h streets, you may see two‑way cycling even if cars are one‑way.

If You’re Using an E‑Scooter

Minimum age: 15.

Helmet required.

Reflective vest at night.

Scooters cannot use pavements.

Fines are €200 for breaking rules.

If You’re on a Motorbike

Gloves mandatory outside cities.

Proper footwear required (no flip‑flops).

Helmets must be officially approved.

If You’re Walking

Pedestrian crossings are now even safer: → If your light is green, cars must be fully stopped.

Expect stricter enforcement in tourist zones (Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Malaga).

Quick Tourist Survival Tips

Spain is cracking down on speeding in rental cars — many towns have 30 km/h zones.

Roundabouts: Spanish drivers always fill the outer lane; be cautious when exiting.

Parking: Blue zones = paid. Yellow lines = no parking.

Alcohol limit is 0.5 g/L, but for tourists the safe rule is don’t drink and drive at all.