Lorraine Williamson
Rear-end collisions are among the most common road accidents in Spain, often caused by drivers failing to leave enough space between vehicles. To tackle this persistent problem, the country’s traffic authority is preparing to roll out new radars that do more than just catch speeding motorists.
Spanish regulations already require a minimum gap of two seconds between vehicles — around 66 metres when driving at 120 km/h. Yet many drivers either ignore or simply forget this rule. The penalties are not light: tailgaters risk fines of €200 to €500 depending on the severity. The new radars aim to turn this forgotten regulation into one that can actually be enforced.
Technology borrowed from France
Rather than developing the system from scratch, Spain is adopting a model already tested in France. There, more than 400 units use Lidar technology to measure both speed and distance. Some experimental devices in France can even detect up to 15 separate infractions, from mobile phone use to ignoring lane rules. Spain’s DGT has not gone that far yet, but it is keeping a close watch on French trials.
New signs and mobile patrols
What drivers will notice first may not be the cameras but the signs. A brand-new marker, the S991f, will warn of distance checks ahead. The blue rectangular panel features both a radar and a safe-distance symbol. Fixed radars will dominate the motorways, while mobile versions are expected around roadworks and accident blackspots.
Speeding remains a major concern
A shift in driving culture
For the DGT, this move is about more than issuing fines. It is part of a broader effort to encourage defensive driving and prevent accidents before they happen. If successful, the radar rollout could shift driver behaviour, reduce tailgating, and help Spain’s motorways become safer for everyone.
Source: Autopista