In recent months, Spanish cities have faced an unexpected problem: parents’ habit of double parking at schools has led not only to traffic jams but also to real safety hazards. New measures introduced by road authorities aim to change established routines and make people reconsider even the briefest stops.
The situation has worsened in major cities, where traffic density around schools peaks during morning and afternoon hours. Parents rushing to work often ignore the rules, leaving their cars in forbidden spots for just a couple of minutes. However, those few minutes can result in accidents and create bottlenecks that hinder not only other drivers but also emergency services.
Recommendations and Restrictions
Road authorities strongly advise parents to plan their school runs in advance to avoid the temptation of stopping in unauthorized locations. This is especially important in major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia, where finding available parking near schools is rare. Drivers are urged to park only where permitted and not to use hazard lights as an excuse to break the rules.
Special attention is being paid to children’s safety: experts recommend dropping them off only on the sidewalk side, to minimize the risk of contact with passing vehicles. Violating these simple rules can lead not just to fines but to tragedy.
Fines and Consequences
According to current law, double parking near schools is considered a serious offense. The fine can reach up to 200 euros, and in some cases, it may be reduced to 100 euros if paid promptly. However, the amount is not the only thing parents should be concerned about: such actions create dangerous situations for all road users.
Inspectors point out that in recent weeks the number of fines issued has increased, and enforcement of these violations has become stricter. Drivers can no longer justify themselves by saying they were in a hurry or stopped for just a moment—even a few seconds can be costly.
A shift in approach
Officials emphasize that the fight against chaotic parking near schools is not a temporary campaign, but a long-term strategy. In some districts, additional patrols have been deployed, and surveillance cameras automatically record violations. Parents are advised to reconsider their routines and allow more time for the commute to avoid unpleasant consequences.
In certain cases, the possibility of creating designated short-term drop-off zones is being discussed, but such solutions require time and coordination with local municipalities. For now, the only way to avoid a fine is to strictly follow the rules and show consideration for other road users.
In recent years, similar situations have occurred not only in Spain but also in other European countries. In Paris and Milan, authorities have also tightened parking controls near schools following a series of incidents involving children. Some cities in Germany introduced temporary bans on stopping near educational institutions during peak hours. These measures have proven effective: the number of accidents and traffic jams has significantly decreased, and parents have become more attentive to traffic regulations.
