Spain’s new red road line: A €400 fine if you ignore it

The DGT’s red line: Not just for show…Have you noticed a bright red line popping up alongside the usual white markings on some Spanish roads?

This is not some sort of new pop-art craze. Spain has taken a new step to cut back on accidents.

The Directorate General of Traffic has introduced red lines in secret on roads with a poor safety record. These are usually winding two-lane roads where people take their own lives trying to overtake. The idea is simple: if you see a red line, it’s a massive red flag—no overtaking, not even if you think you’ve got enough room.

Why are there red lines on spanish road?

Let’s face it, we all have a friend who drives a little too confidently, especially when confronted with a slow moving tractor or caravan in the middle of July. The DGT says too many crashes – often the worst kind- happen because drivers take risks overtaking where they shouldn’t. White lines were supposed do the trick, but we’ve all gotten distracted and missed one or two.

This is where the redline comes into play. It is hard to ignore, and even more difficult to justify crossing. So, next time you’re cruising down the A-355 near Coín in Málaga or certain stretches in Catalonia, keep your eyes peeled. The DGT picked these test areas for a reason—too many prangs, too many close shaves, too many people not making it home for dinner.

Break the rule, face a €400 fine

The law has not changed. Overtaking is not allowed if the line is continuous. You can expect a 400 euro fine and four points on your licence if you cross the red line. This is a steep price to pay for saving a few seconds on your journey.

The Real Automóvil Club de España is backing the move, reminding everyone that the rules have always been clear – even if the paint is new.

The Spanish red line on highways is more than a gimmick

Spain isn’t the first country to try this—some of our European neighbours have found that a splash of colour on the tarmac does wonders for road safety. This is a great way to grab your attention after a long journey, particularly if you are on autopilot. Let’s face it, we all need a visual wake-up.

But the DGT is not just focusing on the red line. It has a broader safety campaign. The DGT is also deploying more speed traps and awareness ads on secondary roads, where most accidents occur.

Will the redline make Spanish roads safer? It’s too early to tell, but the first signs are promising. It’s never a bad idea to remind drivers that it’s not worth the risk to overtake.

The next time you pass a red line, treat it as a friendly reminder: stay on your lane, enjoy nature, and don’t forget that getting to your destination in one piece is the most important thing.