Meet the angry Emoji: Spain’s newest traffic sign could land you a €200 fine

If you’ve been driving around Spain lately, you might have spotted something new staring back at you at a set of traffic lights– a bright yellow sign, complete with a very cross-looking emoji. This is not a joke. It’s not a joke. S-991CThe latest innovation from Spain’s Traffic Authorities is a serious business.

The DGT (Directorate-General for Traffic, or DGT) went on a refreshment spree after more than 20 years of using the same road signs. They updated more than 110 signal across the country. The S-991C stands out, though—not just for its cartoon face, but for what it means for your wallet and your licence. Ignore it, and you could be waving goodbye to €200 and four precious points on your licence.

Spain’s new red-light cameras can catch drivers in action

Let’s face it, we have all been tempted by the urge to dash through the lights as soon as they turned amber. You’ll think twice if you have the S-991C with you. This sign warns you that a camera is waiting for you at a red-light.

Here’s how it happens: as soon as the light flicks to amber, the camera gets ready, and once it’s red, it snaps two photos—one as you approach, and one as you cross. You’ll get a fine if the camera detects that you ignored the signal.

Not only Madrid and Barcelona are deploying these devices. Over the last year, dozens have been installed in the major cities, and there are more popping up across Spain. These numbers are expected to increase as councils will have an entire year to upgrade their roads.

How to avoid a €200 fine from Spain’s new traffic signs

How can you avoid these angry looks? You don’t need to be a motoring expert—just keep your wits about you. Slow down if you see an amber light. Look for the S-991C and be aware that you are under the surveillance of a camera. Do not cross the white line just to get ahead. Take a breath and wait for green—it’s cheaper and a whole lot less stressful.

These new rules are not for everyone. Driver groups, such as AEA and Dvuelta, have made a fuss about these new rules. They argue that the fines were too severe and that certain cases had been overturned at court. If you are on the wrong side of a fine and believe you have a good case, you should keep your paperwork and make a calm and collected appeal.

Save your money by staying sharp

The angry emoji will be around for a long time, whether you like it or not. The Spanish government is trying to control the traffic on its roads, which are becoming more crowded with scooters, ebikes, and impatient motorists. So next time you’re sitting at the lights, don’t gamble—take it easy, stay alert, and keep that €200 for something you actually want to spend it on.