The Spanish Highways Department (DGT) has launched a major operation to tighten speed enforcement on highways. This week, 33 new radars were activated in 11 autonomous regions of the country. This is part of a larger plan that includes the installation of 122 new checkpoints.
What radars were installed?
The new equipment consists of two types of devices:
- 20 stationary radars — permanently installed on dangerous sections of roads
- 13 average speed control systems — analyze vehicle speed on longer routes
According to the DGT, 106 of the 122 planned checkpoints are already operational. The new radars join the existing surveillance network on Spanish roads.
Where are the new devices located?
New radars have been installed throughout Spain:
- Andalusia
- Madrid
- Galicia
- Canary Islands
- Castile and Leon
- Asturias
- Cantabria
- Aragon
- Murcia
- Castile-La Mancha
The new radars have attracted particular attention in the province of Alicante, where they are installed on the popular A-31 and A-7 highways. These roads are often used for long journeys to the south of the country.
Penalty-free period
The DGT has introduced a three-month period for drivers to adapt to the new radars. During the first month of operation, the devices will not issue fines. Instead, drivers will be sent written warnings about speeding.
This gives drivers time to get used to the new control locations and adjust their driving style without financial consequences.
What is the purpose of the new radars?
The main goal of implementing new control systems is to reducing the number of road accidents on dangerous sections of roads. According to statistics, speeding is one of the main causes of serious accidents and fatalities on Spanish roads.
The DGT has focused on regions with the highest accident rates, where the new radars have the maximum effect.
Tips for drivers
If you are driving in Spain, it is a good idea to follow the established speed limits:
- On motorways (autopistas) - maximum 120 km/h
- On expressways (autovías) - maximum 100 km/h
- On ordinary roads outside populated areas - maximum 90 km/h
- In populated areas - maximum 50 km/h
By taking advantage of the warning period, you can adapt to the new radar locations and keep yourself and your passengers safe. Obeying the speed limit is not only a way to avoid fines, but also to ensure your own safety on the road.