Causing a splash: drivers in Spain fined for splashing pedestrians
Motorists in Spain can be slapped with a 100 euro sanction for splashing walkers
It might have been late arriving, but the rainy weather has hit Spain with a vengeance these last few days, causing flooding and disruptions up and down the country. Driving in extremely wet conditions adds an extra risk factor for motorists due to dodgy road surfaces and reduced visibility, but it also places pedestrians in a potentially dangerous situation.
Here in Spain, where drivers can be fined for infractions ranging from not wearing a T-shirt behind the wheel to failing to pop the shopping in the boot, it should come as no surprise that there are also penalties for splashing pedestrians. But why is this considered a crime if it doesn’t place those on foot in harm’s way?
Aside from the fact that nobody likes to be drenched by a passing car when walking down the street or waiting at the traffic lights, the General Traffic Regulations actually have some very specific rules obligating drivers to reduce their speed if there’s a chance of splashing other cars or pedestrians.
Article 2: “Road users are obliged to behave in such a way that they do not unduly hinder circulation or cause unnecessary danger, harm or inconvenience to people, or damage to property.”
Article 46: Drivers must moderate their speed “when water, gravel or other materials can be splashed or projected onto other road users.”
Essentially then, splashing a pedestrian is classed as a minor infraction and traffic cops are well within their rights to fine offending drivers up to 100 euros, although the sanction is usually limited to 80 euros.
Failing to slow down when it rains is considered a more serious issue, since wet roads can lead to aquaplaning and loss of control of the vehicle.
Find all the latest motoring and travel news here or join our Driving in Spain Facebook group for regular updates
Image: DGT
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