In Spain, speed control on the roads remains one of the key priorities for government authorities. The Directorate-General for Traffic, as well as individual municipalities such as Madrid, monitor compliance with traffic rules. Their efforts focus on reducing the number of accidents and increasing safety on the country’s highways.
On many stretches of road, special signs can be seen warning drivers about upcoming speed enforcement devices. These signs are placed in advance so that motorists have time to slow down and avoid fines. However, not everyone knows exactly how far from the radar the warning appears.
Most often, after seeing the information sign, drivers brake suddenly, creating dangerous situations for other road users. This is especially true on busy highways, where abrupt speed reductions can lead to traffic jams or even accidents. If drivers were informed about the exact distance between the sign and the radar, such incidents could be avoided.
In most cases, there is no strictly defined distance between the warning sign and the radar in Spain. Typically, this interval is about one kilometer, but it may vary depending on the road features and local regulations.
This practice is also applied in other European countries. For example, on certain sections of European roads, the distance between the sign and the speed camera depends on the maximum speed limit. If the limit is 70 km/h, the warning sign is placed 300 meters before the device. When the limit is 80-90 km/h, the distance increases to 400 meters. On highways and expressways where speeds over 100 km/h are allowed, the sign is installed 600 meters before the camera.
In Madrid and other major Spanish cities, local authorities independently determine how to place warning signs. This makes it possible to consider the specifics of urban streets and traffic patterns. As a result, drivers can prepare in advance to reduce their speed, contributing to safer traffic conditions.
Thus, the speed camera warning system in Spain and other European countries is designed with regard to road type and permitted speed. Drivers are advised to pay attention to these signs and avoid sudden maneuvers to prevent unpleasant consequences and ensure road safety.
