Everything You Think You Know About Summer Fines: Truths and Myths You Should Be Aware Of

A. Noguerol

Martes, 1 de julio 2025, 18:55

With the onset of summer and the consequent increase in road travel, rumours about "specific" summer fines proliferate.

The main source of confusion centres on everyday actions and clothing that, although not explicitly prohibited by the General Traffic Regulations, can be fined if an officer considers they directly affect safety or vehicle control.

During the summer, with increased travel and the relaxation typical of holidays, the DGT intensifies surveillance to ensure road safety. This means that fines for common infractions may be more frequent. According to the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), the aim of the regulations is always to ensure road safety.

However, not everything we hear or see on social media is necessarily true. In fact, many of the supposed common summer fines are mere myths, although there may be some justification behind them.

Myths and Realities of Summer Fines

Myth: Fined for driving with flip-flops or barefoot.

Reality: There is no article specifically prohibiting this footwear or its absence. However, Article 18.1 of the General Traffic Regulations requires the driver to maintain "freedom of movement, the necessary field of vision, and permanent attention to driving." If an officer assesses that the footwear (or lack thereof) impedes adequate pedal control, the fine could be 80 euros. The same logic applies to high heels or any footwear that limits mobility.

Myth: Fined for driving without a shirt or in a bikini/swimsuit.

Reality: There is no explicit prohibition. The fine, which can range from 80 to 200 euros, would be applied under the same Article 18.1 if the garment (or its absence) affects safety; for example, if it prevents the proper adjustment of the seatbelt or causes a distraction due to discomfort or chafing.

Myth: Illegal to eat a sandwich or drink water while driving.

Reality: There is no specific fine for these actions. However, if eating or drinking distracts the driver, involves handling objects, or results in releasing the steering wheel, it can be penalised for loss of attention to driving, again under Article 18.1. The fine can be up to 100 euros if interpreted as a minor lack of attention.

Myth: Fined for sticking your arm or elbow out of the window.

Reality: There is no direct fine. However, if it is considered that this action limits the driver's freedom of movement or vehicle control, or represents recklessness that endangers the driver, the fine could be 80 euros.

Myth: Fined for having the air conditioning too low.

Reality: This is a completely false myth. There is no regulation governing the cabin temperature. The driver can adjust the air conditioning to their liking.

Myth: Fined for hanging objects from the rear-view mirror that obstruct visibility.

Reality: This is a real infraction. Any object (large air fresheners, compact discs, rosaries, etc.) that reduces the driver's field of vision can be grounds for a fine. Article 19.1 of the General Traffic Regulations explicitly prohibits elements that obstruct visibility. The fine can be up to 200 euros.

The DGT insists that the true aim of fines is not revenue collection, but accident prevention. Road safety fundamentally depends on the driver maintaining full control of their vehicle, avoiding distractions, and maintaining optimal visibility at all times.

Apart from myths, the infractions listed below are real and are considered by the DGT as serious or very serious.

Serious and Very Serious Infractions (Common All Year, But Intensified Surveillance in Summer):

Speeding: Still one of the most frequent and dangerous infractions. Fines range from 100 euros without points to 600 euros and the loss of 6 points in the most serious cases.

Using a mobile phone while driving: Holding the phone (even without using it), manipulating the GPS, or any other distraction while driving (eating, applying makeup, etc.) is a major cause of accidents. The fine for using the phone while holding it is 200 euros and 6 points. Manipulating the GPS is 200 euros and 3 points.

Not using a seatbelt (or child restraint systems): Both for the driver and any passenger. Fine of 200 euros and 4 points for the driver if they or their passengers are not buckled up.

Consumption of alcohol or drugs: The DGT intensifies checks in summer. Fines for alcohol range from 500 euros and 4 points (for levels between 0.25 and 0.50 mg/l in exhaled air) to 1,000 euros and 6 points (for repeat offenders or levels above 0.50 mg/l). Driving under the influence of drugs carries 1,000 euros and 6 points. Exceeding 0.60 mg/l of alcohol is considered a crime and can lead to prison sentences.

Throwing objects onto the road: Especially dangerous in summer due to the risk of fires (cigarette butts). Fine of 200 euros and 4 points.

Driving with an expired MOT or without insurance: Fine of 200 euros for an expired MOT (500 euros if the result is negative) and up to 3,000 euros with vehicle immobilisation for not having mandatory insurance.

Improper parking: Parking in prohibited areas, pedestrian crossings, or tourist areas can result in fines of up to 200 euros and vehicle removal by tow truck.

Not maintaining a safe distance: Crucial in traffic jams and fast lanes.

Not respecting speed limits in construction zones: As seen, the DGT will intensify surveillance in these sections due to the risk to workers, with fines corresponding to speeding.

In a time like summer, where fatigue, high temperatures, and long hours behind the wheel are more common, attention to these basic rules becomes even more critical to ensure a safe journey for everyone.

The DGT always recommends planning trips, getting enough rest, avoiding distractions while driving, and, above all, not consuming alcohol or drugs if you are going to drive to enjoy a safe summer on the roads.