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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. So you flick on the interior light for a few seconds and carry on. 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? It’s considered a potential distraction and a road safety risk. Why that little light could get you into trouble The rule isn’t new, but few drivers are aware of it. Spain’s General Traffic Regulations don’t specifically mention the interior courtesy light, yet it falls under the same law that regulates the improper use of a vehicle’s lighting 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 light is meant for short use, such as when you’re stopped or parked,” the DGT explained. “When switched on while driving, it can dazzle the driver or other road users, increasing the risk of accidents.” 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. So yes, next time you think of turning it on while driving, it might be better to wait until you’re safely parked. Other everyday habits that could cost you too The DGT’s warning doesn’t 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. For instance, driving barefoot, in flip-flops, or without a shirt isn’t allowed. While it might seem comfortable on a hot day, it’s actually considered unsafe. Without proper footwear or clothing, your control of the pedals can be compromised, and in case of an accident, you’re more likely to suffer burns or injuries from seatbelts or airbags. Then there’s eating or snacking while driving – even something as small as grabbing a bite at a red light. It might sound harmless, but it’s classed as distracted driving. The reason? Taking one hand off the wheel and diverting your attention, even for a few seconds, reduces your ability to react and limits your field of vision. 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 One of the DGT’s biggest reminders this year is about keeping a safe distance 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, fines second 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 to tighten its focus on risky driving behaviours, encouraging motorists to prioritise caution and attention behind the wheel. So next time you’re tempted to flick on that light to check something, or take a bite of your sandwich in traffic, think twice. Those few seconds might cost you more than just money – they could cost your safety too. Stay tuned with Euro Weekly News for more news about Motoring

Farah Mokrani •
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. So you flick on the interior light for a few seconds and carry on. 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? It’s considered a potential distraction and a road safety risk. Why that little light could get you into trouble The rule isn’t new, but few drivers are aware of it. Spain’s General Traffic Regulations don’t specifically mention the interior courtesy light, yet it falls under the same law that regulates the improper use of a vehicle’s lighting 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 light is meant for short use, such as when you’re stopped or parked,” the DGT explained. “When switched on while driving, it can dazzle the driver or other road users, increasing the risk of accidents.” 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. So yes, next time you think of turning it on while driving, it might be better to wait until you’re safely parked. Other everyday habits that could cost you too The DGT’s warning doesn’t 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. For instance, driving barefoot, in flip-flops, or without a shirt isn’t allowed. While it might seem comfortable on a hot day, it’s actually considered unsafe. Without proper footwear or clothing, your control of the pedals can be compromised, and in case of an accident, you’re more likely to suffer burns or injuries from seatbelts or airbags. Then there’s eating or snacking while driving – even something as small as grabbing a bite at a red light. It might sound harmless, but it’s classed as distracted driving. The reason? Taking one hand off the wheel and diverting your attention, even for a few seconds, reduces your ability to react and limits your field of vision. 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 One of the DGT’s biggest reminders this year is about keeping a safe distance 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, fines second 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 to tighten its focus on risky driving behaviours, encouraging motorists to prioritise caution and attention behind the wheel. So next time you’re tempted to flick on that light to check something, or take a bite of your sandwich in traffic, think twice. Those few seconds might cost you more than just money – they could cost your safety too. Stay tuned with Euro Weekly News for more news about Motoring
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