Spain's Road Deaths Fall; DGT Warns Against Rearview Mirror Distractions

Staying focused is key to safe driving in the Canary Islands and across Spain. Many things can pull a driver's attention away, both inside and outside the car.

The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) recently shared its early road safety report for 2025. It shows 35 fewer deaths than the year before, a 3% drop. This is the second-lowest number since 1960, only beaten by 2019. (The DGT notes that figures for 2020 and 2021 were unusual due to the pandemic and aren't included in this comparison.)

In the Canary Islands, the most common reasons for fines are speeding, driving without insurance, and distractions. Traffic authorities stress that everyone on the road – drivers, cyclists, and scooter riders – must follow the rules to make roads safer and reduce accidents.

According to Article 19 of the General Traffic Regulations, "The vehicle's windows must always give the driver a clear view of the entire road they are on." This means nothing should block the driver's view.

Even small items like an air freshener or other objects hanging from the rearview mirror can be distracting. The DGT has warned drivers that these accessories can block their view and make driving less safe. Because of this, traffic police can fine drivers who have anything hanging from their rearview mirror.

The DGT reminds everyone that having objects on the rearview mirror can be dangerous and lead to a fine. While air fresheners and similar accessories aren't usually banned outright, a fine of up to 200 euros can be issued if the item is large enough to block the driver's view.

If an object isn't secured properly and falls onto the road, the fine can be as high as 500 euros, and you could lose 4 points from your license. For these reasons, the DGT strongly advises against keeping any such items inside your vehicle.