The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has introduced new road safety regulations directly affecting motorcyclists and cyclists. These measures, originally slated for implementation in 2024, have finally come into force this year with the primary aim of reducing road accidents and improving coexistence among the various types of vehicles sharing Spanish public roads.
Among the most notable measures is the requirement for motorcyclists to wear full-face or modular helmets, as well as approved protective gloves. According to DGT data, these regulations could represent a significant step forward in preventing serious injuries in the event of an accident, particularly to the upper limbs and head, which are especially vulnerable areas for two-wheeled vehicle users.
In addition, the new rules require both motorcyclists and cyclists to wear reflective elements that ensure visibility up to 150 metres in low-light conditions or at night. This measure aims to reduce pedestrian and side-collision accidents, which are among the main causes of fatal incidents involving these groups in Spain.
Strengthening training for new motorcyclists
Since 1 July 2024, motorcycle licence courses have undergone significant changes. The DGT has substantially increased practical training in real traffic conditions to ensure that new riders gain more experience before riding independently. This change responds to statistics showing that inexperience is a key factor in many motorcycle accidents.
The Director-General of Traffic, Pere Navarro, has repeatedly stated that “training is the best preventive tool to reduce accidents.” Early results appear to support this view, with an 8.5% reduction in accidents involving novice riders in the second half of 2024, according to official DGT figures.
New traffic rules for motorcyclists
One of the most anticipated measures by riders, though still pending full implementation, allows motorcycles to use the hard shoulder in traffic jams or congestion. This special circulation will be limited to a maximum speed of 30 km/h and must always respect the priority of other vehicles that may also use this space, such as emergency or roadside assistance vehicles.
Inspired by systems already in use in countries like France and Belgium, this regulation aims to ease traffic flow in large urban centres and reduce waiting times in jams. However, road safety experts warn that specific awareness campaigns will be necessary to educate both motorcyclists and other drivers on the correct use of this new option.
Specific measures for cyclists in urban areas
For cyclists, the new rules introduce substantial changes in urban riding. In addition to the reflective elements mentioned above, cycling against the usual flow of traffic will be allowed on streets with a 30 km/h speed limit during congestion. This measure, successfully implemented in European cities such as Amsterdam and Copenhagen, aims to promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transport.
Another key change requires cyclists to ride in the centre of the lane on urban roads limited to 30 km/h, while other vehicles must maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 metres when overtaking. This rule seeks to reduce side-impact accidents, one of the most common and dangerous types for urban cyclists.
From this year, regulations will also permit groups of cyclists to ride two abreast, occupying a maximum of two lanes while staying as close as possible to the right-hand edge of the road. This responds to long-standing demands from cycling organisations for specific rules for group riding.
The DGT and its road safety strategy
These new regulations are part of the DGT’s 2021–2030 Strategic Road Safety Plan, which aims to halve the number of fatalities and serious injuries in traffic accidents by the end of the decade. Having met the objectives of the previous ten-year plan (2011–2020), Spain now faces the challenge of continuing to improve its accident statistics.
The DGT emphasises that vulnerable road users—pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists—account for nearly 50% of traffic fatalities in Spain, justifying the implementation of specific measures for these groups. According to the latest available data, 1,145 people died on Spanish roads in 2024, including 287 motorcyclists and 38 cyclists.
Penalties for non-compliance
Breaching these new regulations will incur fines ranging from 200€ to 500€, depending on the severity of the offence. Failing to use mandatory protective equipment, such as modular helmets or gloves, carries a base fine of 200€. Riding without the required reflective elements in low-visibility conditions will result in an 80€ fine.
Violations related to improper circulation, such as incorrect use of the hard shoulder by motorcyclists or failure to follow parallel riding rules for cyclists, may lead to fines of up to 500€ in severe cases, particularly where other road users’ safety is endangered.
The DGT has announced that, during the initial months of the regulations, information and awareness campaigns will prioritise education over enforcement. However is law enforcement isset to intensify checks to ensure full compliance with all measures.