Lorraine Williamson
Spain’s traffic authorities have revealed a sharp increase in drivers penalised for speeding during a nationwide crackdown this August. The operation, carried out between 4 and 10 August by the Guardia Civil’s traffic division, checked more than one million vehicles across the country.
In just seven days, 2,793 speed checkpoints were set up, monitoring a total of 1,021,303 vehicles. Of these, 68,662 drivers—6.7%—were caught exceeding legal limits. The figure marks a small but consistent rise compared with the last campaign in April. Moreover, it reflects an upward trend in speeding offences across Spain.
Where most fines were issued
More than half of the reported cases came from Spain’s fastest roads. Motorways and dual carriageways accounted for 53.2% of speeding fines (36,662 drivers). Conventional roads were close behind, with 44.9% (30,854 drivers) caught exceeding the limit. A further 1.9% (1,310 drivers) were fined on urban through-routes and crossings.
From fines to criminal charges
While most infringements resulted in administrative penalties, 11 drivers faced court after being recorded at more than 80 km/h above the speed limit. Under Article 379.1 of Spain’s Penal Code, such cases are treated as a criminal offence against road safety, carrying harsher penalties.
Collaboration across Spain
The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) highlighted the support of regional and local police forces, who joined the Guardia Civil in reinforcing the message that speed limits apply everywhere—whether on high-speed motorways or rural backroads.
Why speeding remains a major concern
Excessive speed is consistently one of the leading risk factors in Spain’s road accidents. Authorities stress that even a small increase in speed can significantly reduce reaction times and increase the severity of collisions. The latest results underline the DGT’s commitment to ongoing nationwide campaigns aimed at curbing reckless driving habits.
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