canary islands traffic fine lane weaving dgt

Dangerous Lane Weaving Could Cost You €500 on Canary Islands Roads

DGT Targets Dangerous Lane Weaving in Canary Islands Traffic

During peak hours, certain areas of the Canary Islands and mainland Spain experience severe traffic congestion, leading many drivers to perform dangerous manoeuvres in an attempt to gain a few metres. Weaving aggressively between lanes is one of the most heavily penalised actions, and Spain’s Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has once again highlighted it due to its high risk of causing accidents.

A Serious and Aggressive Offence

This practice involves constantly and abruptly changing lanes without a clear objective, creating uncertainty for other road users. According to the DGT, besides being an aggressive action, it significantly increases the probability of accidents, especially when traffic is heavy. Weaving between lanes is classified as a serious traffic infringement, which carries a fine of €200. If an officer observes a driver changing lanes repeatedly and without reason, they will be penalised on the spot.

When It Becomes Reckless Driving

Furthermore, when these sudden lane changes invade other lanes and create an obvious danger, the action can be classified as reckless driving. This type of behaviour at the wheel is sanctioned with a €500 fine and the deduction of six points from the driving licence. The objective of the traffic authorities is to reduce road accidents to a minimum and guarantee road safety on all Spanish roads.

The Hidden Dangers of Aggressive Manoeuvres

Performing this type of manoeuvre while driving, especially when traffic is dense and other drivers cannot progress either, is dangerous for several reasons. A distracted driver may not anticipate the movement, leading to unexpected braking or the invasion of another vehicle’s space. It also increases stress, tension, and aggression behind the wheel. Crucially, it prevents other drivers from anticipating actions, reducing their reaction time to any unforeseen event on the road.

Essential Safety Guidelines from the DGT

“Changing lanes should always be done prudently, following the MSM routine (Mirror-Signal-Manoeuvre),” traffic officers advise. To guarantee road safety and ensure drivers conduct themselves securely, the DGT reminds motorists of these basic guidelines:

Plan your manoeuvres: Only change lanes when necessary.
Signal your intentions: Drivers must always indicate in advance the movement they are going to make so other road users can react.
Maintain a safe distance: You will avoid last-minute braking if you keep your distance and pay attention to your driving.
Patience: This is a virtue that helps avoid risk and unnecessary fines.

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