DGT to Implement New Road Safety Regulations Starting October 2026
Starting October 1, 2026, Spain’s DGT will implement new road safety regulations, including stricter overtaking rules for cyclists, mandatory lane discipline during heavy snow, and the required use of V-16 warning devices for roadside incidents.
Starting October 1, 2026, the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) will implement major changes to road safety regulations. These updates aim to better protect vulnerable road users and improve how traffic handles emergencies and bad weather.
Key changes include:
Overtaking cyclists While drivers must still maintain a 1.5-meter lateral distance when passing cyclists on interurban roads, there is a new speed requirement. Drivers must now slow down to at least 20 km/h below the road’s speed limit. For instance, on a road with a 90 km/h limit, you must not exceed 70 km/h while overtaking.
Driving in heavy snow To keep roads clear for emergency services and snowplows, overtaking will be banned on highways and dual carriageways during heavy snowfall. All vehicles must stay in the right lane, leaving the left lane open for snow-clearing equipment and emergency responders.
Breakdowns and accidents New protocols are being introduced to protect those involved in roadside incidents. The use of the V-16 luminous warning device will be mandatory for any vehicle immobilized due to a breakdown or accident.
These rules will be strictly enforced starting in the final quarter of 2026, and failure to comply will result in fines.