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Date Published: 27/12/2024

Spanish traffic authorities introduce new rules for overtaking cyclists

From next year, drivers in Spain will be forced to slow way down before passing someone on a bike

Overtaking a cyclist, or a group of them, is always a very risky situation, particularly for the person riding the bike. For this reason, the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) has very strict rules regarding overtaking cyclists and drivers face expensive fines and penalty points if these aren’t adhered to.

The regulations were tightened in a 2022 update of the Traffic and Road Safety Law, but it looks like the rules are about to change again in the very near future. The DGT is studying the legislation and experts are considering several modifications to improve the safety of those who ride bicycles both in the city and on interurban roads, as they are one of the most vulnerable groups on the road.

Proposed new rules for overtaking cyclists

Currently, drivers must leave a distance of at least 1.5 metres when overtaking a bike. In order to pass safely, the motorist should ensure there’s room to partially move into the adjacent lane.

This specific part of the regulations will remain the same, but others will change.

The most drastic proposal is that drivers slow down to 20 kilometres per hour below the speed limit before overtaking a cyclist. According to the traffic authorities, because the difference in speed between cars and bicycles is already quite large, forcing motorists to slow even further will increase the safety of everyone.

The draft presented by the DGT itself states that “the speed difference between the two is already large, so the protection of the weaker forces the speed to be reduced and not increased.”

Going forward, it will also be mandatory for cyclists to wear helmets unless they have a medical exemption.

Fines

At the moment, if a driver does not respect the lateral safety distance of 1.5 metres when overtaking, he or she faces a traffic fine of 200 euros. But not only that, the sanction also carries with it a penalty of up to six points on the driving licence.

The DGT hasn’t indicated if it’s considering increasing the fines or penalties in 2025.

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Image: DGT

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