Spain’s DGT warns drivers not to rely only on automatic headlights this winter.
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Spain’s traffic authority has issued a reminder to drivers this winter – and it’s one you’ll want to take seriously. A small, easy-to-make mistake behind the wheel could end up costing you as much as €600.
Why you shouldn’t rely only on automatic headlights
The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) has warned motorists not to depend solely on their car’s automatic light system, which can fail to react in bad weather or low-visibility situations such as rain, fog, or tunnels.
While these systems make driving more convenient, they aren’t foolproof. When they don’t activate in time, your vehicle may be left invisible to other drivers, which is both dangerous and illegal under Spanish law.
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Traffic regulations require drivers to have their lights on between sunset and sunrise, and whenever visibility drops. The DGT reminded drivers that one of the golden rules of road safety is to ‘see and be seen’ – and that no amount of technology replaces common sense.
The fines are steep – and could get worse
Forgetting or failing to turn on your lights might not seem like a big deal, but it can cost you. The fine for driving without the required headlights is usually €200, but if your mistake puts others at risk, it can climb to €600.
And that’s not all – in the event of an accident, insurance companies might refuse to cover damages if they determine the lights weren’t used properly. In other words, what starts as a simple oversight could quickly turn into a very expensive problem.
The warning comes as part of a national awareness campaign launched by the DGT this October, aimed at preventing common winter driving mistakes – especially those caused by overreliance on car technology.
Smart systems help, but judgment matters more
Even with today’s advanced cars, the DGT says drivers still need to stay alert and use their own judgment.
Automatic systems can struggle to detect certain lighting conditions – for example, short tunnels, mountain roads, or dusk, when light levels fluctuate. For that reason, drivers are advised to manually check their headlights before hitting the road, particularly during winter.
As the DGT reminded motorists, Spanish law (Article 43 of the Road Safety Act) clearly states that headlights must be on between sunset and sunrise, no matter what system you use.
So before you set off on your next winter drive, take a quick look at your lights – it might just save you a fine, a headache, and a whole lot of money.
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