Understanding Traffic Laws & Regulations in Tenerife

Understanding Traffic Laws and Regulations in Tenerife

Driving in Tenerife, like anywhere else, means understanding and following basic traffic laws and regulations. The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) oversees these laws at the national level in Spain, but there are also local regulations to know on the island.

Properly Displaying License Plates

One key regulation involves properly displaying license plates. As the DGT states clearly, plates must be "perfectly legible and not deteriorated." If caught driving without plates, having plates that are not visible or are illegible, you can face fines of €200.

Intentionally manipulating license plates is considered a serious offense. This carries much steeper punishments of €6,000 in fines and up to six points off your driver's license.

Common Traffic Violations and Fines

Beyond license plates, there are many everyday traffic laws that, if broken, can lead to fines and other legal problems. Some common violations and associated penalties include:

• Speeding - Fines starting at €100, plus license suspension possible for excessive speeding
• Running red lights - €200 fines
• Using your phone while driving - €200 fines
• Not wearing a seatbelt - €200 fines
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs - Fines up to €1,000, license suspension, and even jail time

Dealing with Traffic Tickets or Violations

If you do receive a traffic ticket or violation, it is important not to simply ignore it. The consequences, including increased fines, license suspension, and legal problems, will only compound over time.

Instead, you have a few options to deal with traffic fines or citations:

• Pay the fine - If you do not dispute the violation, paying the fine is the easiest option to resolve it.
• Contest the ticket - If you believe you have been wrongly accused or want to plea for a reduced penalty, you can contest the ticket.
• Request traffic school - In some cases, attending traffic school may allow you to reduce fines or avoid getting points on your license.
• Consult a traffic lawyer - A lawyer can help negotiate reductions to fines and penalties or even get tickets dismissed in some cases.

Working with a Tenerife Traffic Lawyer

Given the complexities around traffic laws and the severe impacts of penalties like losing your license, working with an experienced traffic lawyer is often wise.

How Can a Lawyer Help?

A skilled traffic lawyer can provide assistance in a number of ways, including:

• Reviewing the details of your ticket citation and identifying any errors or issues
• Navigating the legal system and administrative processes related to fighting tickets
• Advising the best approach to contesting a ticket - whether that's pleading innocence, seeking a plea deal, taking a case to court, or more
• Representing you in negotiations with law enforcement and prosecutors
• Presenting a solid defense case if a ticket dispute does go to court
• Applying relevant laws, past cases, and jurisprudence to advocate for your best outcome

Finding an Attorney in Tenerife

If you need legal help fighting a traffic ticket or citation in Tenerife, how do you find a good attorney? Key tips include:

• Search for lawyers located in Tenerife or who clearly specialize in Canary Islands traffic law specifically.
• Look for extensive experience dealing with traffic cases, including representing drivers in court if necessary.
• Choose an attorney you connect well with and who gives you confidence by outlining a proactive strategy for your case.
• Understand fee structures - quality representation may be worth higher legal fees.

Avoiding Common Driving Mistakes in Tenerife

While legal help is useful once you receive a ticket, avoiding traffic fines and violations in the first place is the best approach. Some tips include:

Drive Defensively

Allow extra following distance between cars, be alert to other drivers and pedestrians, and reduce speeds according to conditions. Defensive driving can help prevent accidents and traffic stops.

Stay Focused

Minimize distractions by not eating, programming navigation systems, or otherwise diverting attention while driving. Focus fully on the road and task of driving.

Know Regulations

Different traffic rules apply to residents versus tourists so understand which laws apply to you. If renting a car, learn rules for any unfamiliar signs or signals.

Have Proper Documentation

Always carry valid insurance and vehicle registration documents as well as a valid driver's license. Make sure license plates are properly displayed and easy to read.

Following basic traffic rules and driving carefully remains the best way to avoid issues on Tenerife's roads. But if you do receive a ticket or citation, don't hesitate to enlist an experienced abogados trafico tenerife to protect your driving record and privileges.