Lorraine Williamson
August is Spain’s busiest holiday month, with millions of additional journeys expected on the country’s roads over the coming weeks. While traffic volumes remain high, Spain’s traffic authority is reminding drivers that many of the most serious incidents are caused by avoidable mistakes rather than mechanical failures.
The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) says the combination of holiday traffic, high temperatures and driver fatigue continues to create challenging conditions, particularly on routes leading to coastal destinations, mountain resorts and popular tourist areas.
Although many people focus on congestion, officials say long-distance journeys in hot weather present their own risks. Tiredness, dehydration and distractions behind the wheel can reduce reaction times long before drivers realise they are becoming fatigued.
Drivers are being encouraged to plan journeys carefully, avoid the hottest part of the day where possible and ensure vehicles are ready for long trips before setting off.
Small checks can prevent bigger problems
The DGT recommends checking tyre pressures, engine coolant, oil levels and lights before travelling. High summer temperatures place additional strain on both vehicles and drivers, particularly during extended motorway journeys.
Motorists are also reminded not to overload vehicles, especially when carrying holiday luggage, bicycles or roof boxes, as excess weight can affect braking distances and vehicle stability.
Keeping enough drinking water in the car is another simple precaution, particularly if delays occur because of traffic, roadworks or accidents.
Check your route before setting off
While most journeys will be unaffected, drivers travelling through rural, forested or mountainous areas should check for road closures, diversions and major delays before leaving.
Summer wildfires can force roads to close at short notice while emergency services tackle fires, protect nearby communities or carry out precautionary evacuations. Roadworks, accidents, local events and heavy holiday traffic can also affect journey times.
The DGT recommends checking traffic conditions before departure and, where possible, monitoring live updates during longer journeys. If a road is closed because of a wildfire or other emergency, drivers should follow official diversion routes and never attempt to bypass barriers or instructions from emergency services.
Before setting off, motorists are encouraged to check the DGT’s live traffic map, radio traffic bulletins and official regional emergency channels, particularly when travelling through areas where wildfire warnings remain in force.
Fatigue remains a hidden danger
One of the biggest risks during summer travel is fatigue.
Many drivers begin journeys early in the morning or continue late into the evening in an effort to avoid traffic. While this can reduce congestion, it may also mean travelling when concentration levels are naturally lower.
The DGT advises taking a break at least every two hours, sharing driving where possible and never continuing a journey if drowsiness develops.
Extra care in tourist areas
Popular coastal resorts and rural destinations often experience unfamiliar traffic patterns during August, with increased numbers of pedestrians, cyclists, motorhomes and rental vehicles.
Authorities are reminding motorists to expect sudden manoeuvres from visitors unfamiliar with local roads, particularly near beaches, campsites and historic town centres.
Drivers should also be aware that local festivals taking place throughout August may lead to temporary road closures and diversions.
A safer end to the summer
The vast majority of holiday journeys end without incident, but Spain’s road safety authorities say careful preparation remains the simplest way to reduce risks.
Allowing extra time, staying hydrated and avoiding unnecessary pressure to keep to a schedule can make journeys both safer and less stressful during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.