DGT Warns Drivers of Safety Risks Linked to Driving With Windows Down
Spain's Directorate-General for Traffic is advising drivers to keep windows closed at high speeds to maintain vehicle stability and prevent dangerous habits that could lead to severe injuries or fines.
The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) is warning drivers about the hidden safety risks of driving with the windows down this summer. While it is not illegal to drive with your windows open, officials warn that it can create dangerous situations by affecting your vehicle's stability and distracting you from the road.
From a technical standpoint, opening your windows at high speeds changes your car's aerodynamics. This increased air resistance can make the vehicle harder to handle, potentially affecting your ability to maneuver safely. For this reason, authorities recommend using your car’s climate control system instead, as it keeps the cabin temperature stable without interfering with your driving.
The DGT is also concerned about passengers sticking limbs out of open windows. In the event of a collision, this posture puts occupants at risk of severe injury. Safety experts refer to this as the "guillotine effect," where the window frame can cause irreversible harm, even if the passenger is wearing a seatbelt.
While you won't be fined simply for having your windows down, the DGT will penalize any behavior that compromises road safety. Specifically, throwing trash or cigarette butts out of a window is strictly prohibited and can result in a fine of up to 500 euros and the loss of six license points. Ultimately, the DGT urges drivers to stay focused and avoid any routine habits that could lead to an accident or a traffic violation.