Driving in Gran Canaria, Spain

Driving in Gran Canaria

Speed Limits:

Speed limits in Spain are as follows: 20 kph in residential areas, 50 kph in built-up areas, 90 kph in country roads, 100 kph in dual carriageways, 120 kph on motorways, 80 kph for cars towing a trailer on divided highways and 70 kph on other roads.

The only fast roads on the island are the GC1 motorway from Las Palmas to Arguineguín and the GC2 from Las Palmas to Agaete.

Parking:

Parking is prohibited on white or yellow lines and blue lines indicate a restricted parking area where you must purchase a ticket from a pay-and-display machine.; €30 fine.

Single white lines – If there is a single white line in the middle of the road you shouldn’t cross it.

Seat Belts:

Seat Belts. Seat belts must be worn at all times.

Alcohol:

Blood alcohol limit is 0.05% (0.015% for drivers who’ve acquired their licence in the past five years). Breath tests are carried out randomly and non-residents are subject to on-the-spot fines.

Fines:

Police are empowered to collect fines of up to 300.51 euros on the spot. Foreigners non-resident must pay on the spot unless they can present a Spanish bail bond or an address in Spain or company who will guarantee payment of the fine. If the fine cannot be paid or guaranteed, the vehicle will be impounded. Normally there is a discount of 30 percent for immediate settlement. You should pay the fine first, it is necessary for the policeman to permit you to continue your trip.

Carry With You All the time:

Driving license - Car certificate - Your Insurance - Your Passport - Road Tax

Incidence:

You will have a period of 7 days to report the accident to your insurance company in Spain. Your indemnity will depend on the type of car insurance you have contracted.

The Police accident report is an important proof to determine who is responsible for the accident. You should attach copy of this report when you claim for the damages suffered before the insurance company. If you or any of the passengers have been injured, you should also attach copy of the medical report to claim for compensation before the insurance company.