Traffic jams
81 newsThe page turns scattered updates into useful context for people who live in Spain, visit Spain or follow Spanish affairs from abroad.
Truck Fire on AP-7 Causes 13-Kilometre Traffic Jam Near Barcelona
A truck fire on the AP-7 near Cerdanyola del Vallès brought traffic to a standstill for 13 kilometres. Emergency crews are working to control the blaze. Nearby routes and Barcelona’s Ronda Litoral are also heavily affected.
Minor Arrested in Balaguer Over Violent Death Linked to Car Crash
A minor has been detained in Balaguer, Lleida, in connection with a man's violent death. The arrest follows a car accident in August. Authorities are withholding further details as the investigation continues.
Why Traffic Signs in Spain Come in Different Sizes
The size of a traffic sign in Spain is not just a matter of design. Regulations require three distinct sizes, each chosen for safety and visibility depending on the speed limit and type of road. Here’s how the system works—and why it matters.
Motorcyclist Killed in Barcelona Hit-and-Run, Driver Arrested
A 38-year-old motorcyclist died after being struck by a car in central Barcelona. The driver fled but was later apprehended. Authorities are investigating multiple offenses, including reckless homicide.
Spain’s New V27 Signal Will Only Work in Modern Cars
The DGT’s V27 signal is set to transform road safety in Spain, but only drivers with newer, connected vehicles will benefit immediately. Older cars will be left out until the fleet is renewed.
Serious Injury After Car and Truck Crash on A-21 in Loiti
A major collision between a car and a truck on the A-21 in Loiti left one person seriously injured. The victim was airlifted to Hospital Universitario de Navarra. Traffic disruptions continue as emergency teams work at the scene.
Urban Traffic Lights in Spain to Change Under New Road Rules
From October, Spain’s urban traffic lights will operate under new rules. The DGT aims to reduce risks for pedestrians and cyclists. The update ends a long-standing ambiguity at crossings.
Asturias Tests Real-Time Beach Traffic System During Solar Eclipse
On August 12, Asturias launched a pioneering system with the DGT to track traffic at 16 beaches in real time. The initiative, timed with the solar eclipse, aims to improve mobility management and could shape future emergency and tourism planning.
Major Accident Shuts Down AP-7 Near El Papiol, Emergency Crews Mobilized
A serious crash involving three cars forced the closure of the AP-7 towards Barcelona at El Papiol. Emergency services responded with multiple units. Significant delays and traffic jams developed in the area.
Madrid Residents Face Sleepless Nights Amid Summer Noise and Fines
Central Madrid’s summer brings sleepless nights for residents. Noise from street gatherings and construction, strict parking fines, and tourist crowds make daily life difficult. Locals struggle to find relief as city life intensifies.
Spain to Change Traffic Light Rules for Pedestrian Safety from October
From 1 October, Spain will introduce a major change to traffic light operations. The DGT will prohibit the overlap of flashing amber for vehicles and green for pedestrians, aiming to reduce confusion and improve safety at crossings.
Ducati Panigale V4 Hits 300 km/h on Public Road, Ignites Outrage
A viral helmet-cam video shows a Ducati Panigale V4 accelerating past 300 km/h on a busy public road. The footage has sparked fierce debate over road safety and calls for legal action against the rider.
Catalan Government Considers Return of AP-7 Tolls to Ease Congestion
Catalonia may reintroduce tolls on the AP-7 to tackle heavy congestion and frequent accidents. Authorities plan to review options this autumn. A new working group will assess strategies for the region’s busiest motorway.
Motorcyclist Dies in Collision on N-620A Near Salamanca
A man in his 30s lost his life after a crash between a motorcycle and a car on the N-620A in Villares de la Reina. Emergency services confirmed his death at the scene. The incident highlights ongoing road safety concerns in the region.
DGT Launches Dynamic Bus-VAO Lane on A-2 with €200 Fines for Solo Drivers
Madrid's A-2 now features a dynamic Bus-VAO lane, restricting access during peak hours to vehicles with at least two occupants. Drivers who ignore the rule risk a €200 fine, as the DGT enforces new surveillance measures. The system aims to ease congestion and speed up commutes.
Interior Pushes for Lower Drink-Driving Limit Before End of Term
Spain’s Interior Ministry is determined to cut the legal blood alcohol limit for drivers. The measure faces resistance in Congress but aims to reduce road deaths. The DGT and victims’ groups back the urgent change.
Three Seriously Injured in Wrong-Way Crash on A-62 Near Dueñas
A vehicle traveling against traffic on the A-62 near Dueñas caused a severe crash. Three people suffered serious injuries. Emergency services responded and the road remains closed toward Burgos.
Spain Rolls Out Red Lanes on A-2: What Drivers Need to Know
The DGT is piloting red-painted lanes on the A-2 to prioritize buses and vehicles with multiple occupants during peak hours. Drivers must follow new rules and signals to avoid fines as the system adapts to real-time traffic.
DGT Fines Guardia Civil Patrols for Speeding During Armed Robbery Chase
Two Guardia Civil patrols were fined for speeding while responding to an armed robbery. The automated system flagged their urgent pursuit, sparking a legal dispute that exposed flaws in Spain’s traffic enforcement for emergency vehicles.
DGT Launches Major Traffic Operation for August 15 Holiday
Spain’s DGT is deploying its full resources for the August 15 holiday, with intensified speed and alcohol checks, drones, and helicopters to manage over 5.6 million journeys during one of the year’s riskiest travel weekends.
DGT Expects 5.6 Million Road Trips During August Holiday Weekend
Spain braces for 5.6 million road journeys this weekend. The DGT intensifies controls after a deadly spike in accidents. Festive events and the mid-August holiday drive the surge in travel.
Renfe Blames Train Shortage for Tarragona Station Overcrowding
Thousands faced long waits at Tarragona stations after the eclipse. Renfe says it lacked extra trains to handle the surge. Police restricted access for safety as platforms filled beyond capacity.
DGT Issues Urgent Warnings for Drivers Ahead of Historic Solar Eclipse
On August 12, Spain will witness its first total solar eclipse in over a century. The DGT has declared the event high-risk for traffic and released strict guidelines for drivers caught on the road during the phenomenon.
Massive Crowds and Traffic Chaos as Catalonia Watches Rare Total Eclipse
Tens of thousands gathered across Catalonia to witness a rare total solar eclipse. Major roads and train stations were overwhelmed, with authorities activating emergency alerts. The next such event is not expected for over a century.
Why Summer Heat Makes Tyre Changes a Critical Safety Issue
Rising summer temperatures in Spain put extra stress on car tyres, increasing the risk of blowouts and costly damage. Understanding when and how to replace tyres can help drivers avoid accidents and unexpected expenses.
Catalonia Imposes Truck Ban and Police Operation for Eclipse Traffic
Catalonia will restrict truck traffic and deploy 700 police for the total solar eclipse. Authorities expect local travel surges and urge use of public transport. Special trains and parking rules are in place.
Study Reveals 'Kangaroo Jump' Effect at Speed Cameras in Spain
A new scientific review uncovers how drivers slow down before visible speed cameras only to accelerate immediately after, a behavior dubbed the 'kangaroo jump.' The study finds section speed cameras are far more effective at curbing this risky pattern and improving road safety.
DGT Targets 2022 Vehicles: First ITV Inspection Required in 2026
Spanish drivers with cars or motorcycles registered in 2022 must prepare for their first mandatory ITV inspection in 2026. Missing the deadline could mean a €200 fine, regardless of how often the vehicle is used or whether it is parked. Key details on affected license plates and inspection rules.
New Jersey Police Catch 74 Drivers Using Phones with Bush Disguise Tactic
In Galloway, New Jersey, police disguised an officer as a bush to spot drivers using mobile phones. The operation led to 74 fines in just six hours, highlighting the scale of distracted driving and sparking debate over police tactics.
Speed Cameras in Spain Cut Average Driving Speeds by 7.6 km/h
A major scientific review finds that speed cameras in Spain reduce average driving speeds by 7.6 km/h. The study also reveals which types of radar are most effective at curbing dangerous driving habits.
Spain Prepares for Rare Total Solar Eclipse and Perseid Meteor Shower
On August 12, 2026, Spain will witness its first total solar eclipse in over a century, followed by the peak of the Perseid meteor shower. Experts urge careful planning, as the eclipse will occur at sunset and require unobstructed views to the west.
Valencia Rolls Out Rotating Speed Cameras to Halve Serious Road Accidents
Valencia has approved a new road safety plan aiming to cut deadly and serious accidents in half by 2030. The strategy includes rotating speed cameras, stricter police controls, and changes to crossings and bike lanes to protect the most vulnerable road users.
DGT Rolls Out New Speed Cameras and Fines Across Spain
From August 3 to 9, Spain’s DGT will deploy new speed cameras and stricter controls on key roads. Drivers exceeding limits face fines up to €600 and possible license points loss. The campaign focuses on accident-prone areas during peak travel.
Major Traffic Delays on AP7 After Concrete Beam Truck Accident
A truck carrying concrete beams caused severe disruption on the AP7 in Castellví de la Marca. Two lanes were closed and traffic jams stretched for 20 km. Authorities advised alternative routes as cleanup continued.
Madrid to Close M-30 Tunnel Towards Badajoz for A-5 Underground Works
Madrid will shut the M-30 tunnel towards Badajoz from August 3 to 24. The closure is needed to connect the new A-5 tunnel. Drivers face major detours and traffic changes during the works.
Page 1 by 3