Spain Drafts Right-Lane Rule for Highways in Heavy Snow and Ice

Overview

• Spain’s traffic authority DGT is preparing an amendment to Article 31 of the traffic code to require motorists to drive exclusively in the right lane on autopistas and autovías during abundant snow or ice.
• The plan is designed to keep the left lane clear so snowploughs and emergency vehicles can maintain access and carry out road-clearing operations.
• Officials have not provided a timeline for approval or details on enforcement, penalties, or when the change would take effect.
• AEMET and the DGT issued weather alerts during the holiday period advising people to avoid driving in adverse conditions where possible.
• The article cites 2024 crash data to underscore weather risks, including 3,397 injury crashes with 72 deaths in rain and 1,004 crashes with 24 deaths in fog, with lower totals associated with snow, ice, and strong wind.