|
Driving a car on the Costa del Sol is very similar to d riving in other European countries. The roads are reasonably well maintained. The following points should serve as a guide.
The law demands that:
- · Driving license, car document and insurance be carried at all times.
- · Seat belts are worn front and back at all times.
- · Less than 50mg/100ml of alcohol be in the blood (less than many other countries).
- · Two warning triangles be carrrried.
- · Do not use a mobile phone whilst driving unless completely hands off system.
- · Children under 12 are not permitted in front seats or on a motorcycle.
- · Radar detectors are illegal as is warning drivers ahead of a checkpoint.
Speed limits:
- · 120 km/h on motorways.
- · 100 km/h on dual carriageways.
- · 90 km/h on single carriageway roads.
- · 50 km/h in towns.
Rules of the road
- · Give way to the right.
- · Priority is to those already on a roundabout.
Fines
Traffic Violations are divided into three categories:
Very serious "muy grave" incur fines from €302 to €602 and suspension for up to 3 months include:
- · refusing to take a breath test.
- · exceeding the speed limit by 50%.
- · reckless driving.
- · driving in the wrong direction against traffic.
- · racing.
- · carrying 50% more passengers than seats.
Serious "grave" incur fines from €91 to €302 and possible suspensions include:
- · Speeding in excess of 50%.
- · Parking in a dangerous position.
- · Negligence such as driving without lights.
- · Throwing out an object which could cause an accident or fire.
Minor "menor" incur fines up to €91 and includes:
Offenders may obtain a 30% discount for prompt payment or may pay a policeman on the spot.
Non residents tourists are usually fined on the spot. The fine may be a "garantia" so that you can continue you trip and you could then contest the fine later in court.
Signposts
Signposting is generally not good and often inconsistent. Old signs are often not taken down when new roads make them redundant. This can lead to conflicting directions. 'Cambio de Sentido' indicates an opportunity to turn round. Keep cool, you will get there in the end.
Motorways
Most of the major cities of Andalucia are now linked by two lane fast motorways.
The toll motorways are from Seville to Jerez (Car = 4 Euro) and Cadiz (Car = 5 Euro) and from Malaga to Marbella (Car = 5 Euro), from Marbella to Estepona (Car= 3 Euro) and from Estepona to Sotogrande (Car = 2 Euro). These are all in very good condition and have low traffic density.
You will need a good map. Michellin 446 of Southern Spain is the best.
Petrol
Almost all garages sell petrol at the maximum price permitted by the government. This varies periodically, but as a guide:
- · Leaded Petrol is 0.89 Euros a litre.
- · Unleaded Petrol is 0.81 Euros a litre.
- · Diesel is 0.75 Euros a litre.
Most petrol stations are self service, many of the older ones are attendant service. Credit Cards are universally accepted. Tipping is unusual despite what you may read in many guide books. Many garages are open 24hrs. You always put petrol in first then pay at the desk, an exception to this rule may be at night.
Driving Style
Drivers are generally impatient. They will sound the horn if you delay starting at a green trafic light. Do not give way, out of politeness, when you don't have to, it won't be expected and will lead to confusion. Flashing headlights does not mean 'Please go ahead' it means only 'Watch out I am coming!'
Motorcycles
Helmets are compulsory on all bikes at all times, even on small motorbikes under 50cc.
National Trafic Authority
DGT - Link to the website of the Direción General de Traffico, contains real time information on the latest driving conditions. Part of the extensive website is in English.
Have a safe trip!
|
