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Risk a €30k fine for carrying these items in your Spanish car
The traffic authorities in Spain have warned that certain objects can result in a serious penalty if carried in the car without authorisation
We all know that driving in Spain comes with its fair share of rules and regulations. But while most of us remember to wear seatbelts and stick to the speed limit, there is another side to road safety that often gets overlooked. It has to do with what you are carrying inside your car.
Spain’s traffic authority, the DGT or Dirección General de Tráfico, is cracking down on drivers who transport certain items without the right authorisation. These rules might seem strict, but the fines are even more serious. Some violations could cost you up to €30,000 and may even lead to legal trouble in more extreme cases.
It might not seem like a big deal to leave a few tools or a water bottle rolling around the back seat, but authorities say these can pose real dangers in the event of a crash. The DGT is not just focusing on obviously illegal items like weapons or explosives. Even everyday objects can become dangerous if they are not stored properly.
The Guardia Civil has recently increased roadside checks across the country. They are not just asking for your driving licence and registration anymore. Now they are also checking what you have inside your vehicle, including the boot and glove compartment.
What should you avoid carrying?
Here are some of the most common items that could get you into trouble if you do not take the right precautions:
- Radar detectors: These are strictly banned. If you are caught with one, you could face a five hundred euro fine and lose three points from your licence.
- Loose items: Bottles, backpacks, tools, electronic devices and even bags of shopping must be secured. In a sudden stop or accident, these can become projectiles and cause serious harm.
- Pets without restraints: Animals must be properly secured using a harness or pet carrier. Letting them move freely around the car is both unsafe and illegal.
- Unsecured loads: If you are transporting large items, make sure they are tied down correctly. Anything that sticks out or shifts around could be seen as a risk to road safety.
- Hazardous materials: This includes flammable liquids, explosive items and certain chemicals. You need a special permit to transport these substances legally in Spain.
What happens if you are caught?
Penalties vary depending on the seriousness of the offence. For minor issues, such as unsecured objects, you might get a few points off your licence and a fine of a few hundred euros.
But if you are carrying hazardous goods without permission, the fine can go as high as thirty grand. In some cases, legal proceedings may also follow.
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