Drivers in Spain warned: this everyday habit could now cost you €200

It’s one of those things we’ve all done – you’re in the car at night, you drop something, or you just need a bit of light to find something quickly.

Then you turn the interior light on for a few moments and continue. Seems harmless, right? Not quite.

According to Spain’s Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), that simple gesture could now land you with a fine of up to €200. The reason for this? It is considered a distraction and road safety risk.

 The little light that could cause trouble

This rule is not new, but it’s little known. Spain’s General Traffic Regulations do not specifically mention interior courtesy lighting, but they fall under the same law as the one that regulates improper usage of vehicle’s illumination systems.

In simple terms, that means turning on your car’s cabin light while driving – especially at night – can be penalised if police officers believe it poses a risk to visibility or concentration.

“The interior lights are meant to be used only for short periods, such as when the vehicle is stopped or parked,” DGT explained. “If switched on while driving it can dazzle or cause accidents to other road users.”

And while the fine can go up to €200, the decision is left to the officer’s discretion – meaning they decide whether the light truly created a distraction or danger.

Next time you consider turning it on, you might want to wait until your car is safely parked before you do so.

 You may also be paying for other everyday habits

The DGT warning does not stop there. The agency has also reminded drivers that several other common, everyday habits – ones that many motorists don’t even think twice about – can also lead to fines.

Driving barefoot in flip-flops or without a shirt, for example, is not allowed. It may seem like a good idea on a hot summer day, but it is actually unsafe. You can lose control of your pedals if you don’t wear the right footwear or clothing. In an accident, airbags and seatbelts are more likely to cause injuries or burns.

Then there’s eating or snacking while driving – even something as small as grabbing a bite at a red light. Although it may seem innocent, distracted driving is a serious offense. Why? The reason?

That particular offence can lead to a €100 fine, even if you think you were “just nibbling for a moment”.

 Tailgating and safety distance – another costly mistake

The DGT has reminded drivers to maintain a safe space between vehicles. Tailgating — driving too close to the car in front — remains one of the most common and dangerous driving habits in Spain.

The law treats it seriously: failing to maintain a proper distance can result in a €200 fine and a loss of four points from your licence. It’s not just about courtesy – following too closely drastically reduces your ability to stop in time if the car ahead brakes suddenly, and it’s one of the leading causes of rear-end collisions across the country.

 Safety first and fines later

At the end of the day, the DGT says the message isn’t about collecting fines – it’s about reminding drivers that small distractions can have big consequences.

Spain’s traffic authority continues its tightening focus on risky driving behaviors, encouraging drivers to prioritize caution and attention while behind the wheel.

Think twice the next time you want to switch on that light in order to check a thing or eat a sandwich while driving. Those few seconds might cost you more than just money – they could cost your safety too.