British tourists driving in Spain were urged to look for new signs on the country's roads, namely the continuous red line. In its commitment to improving road safety, the Spanish Transportation Authority (DGT) has introduced this new type of sign (complete the traditional white lines) to reduce the number of accidents, particularly in dangerous areas.
Redline is looking to tighten its ban on passing in key sections. The striking colours are expected to serve as an additional warning element intended to more effectively capture the attention of drivers in areas where overtaking is strictly prohibited. The implementation of this new road marking is attributed to a thorough analysis of accident rates on traditional roads, where the most serious accidents occur, according to a report by Majorca Daily Bulletin.
The pilot project has already been implemented in various locations across the country, so British tourists should be on guard if they travel to Spain immediately. They were chosen for this first installation based on a study of driver behavior and accident statistics.
For example, road markings have been introduced on the 26-mile A-355 road near Malaga coins near Marbella. According to Euroweekly News, the road is known as the “Death Highway” and has seen 10 deaths in the past 12 months.
Despite previous efforts to improve highway safety, including the increased number of revised guardrails and signs, the accident has continued to plague the A-355 since it began 10 years ago.
Originally designed to handle 7,000 vehicles per day, the road has seen nearly 20,000, including a considerable number of vehicles.
The new red line in Spain equals the double continuous white line in Britain. This indicates that overtaking is not permitted, especially on roads with blind bends and hills, where overtaking can be dangerous.
If the closest line to you is broken, rule 128 of the highway code says that if you are safe you can pass and complete the operation and cross the line.
Spain's Royal Auto Club (Race) reminded us that breaking the overtaking ban, regardless of the colour of the continuous line, could result in a fine of up to 400 euros (£340) and a four-point loss on a driver's license.
This penalty is provided in general traffic regulations and applies to both the white and new red lines at the same severity.
The introduction of the red line is part of a broader plan to improve road safety, including the installation of new section radars, strengthening awareness campaigns, and increasing the presence of agents on secondary roads.
