Malaga, a vibrant city on Spain’s southern coast, attracts millions of visitors every year. Navigating the city’s busy streets requires a good understanding of the local traffic rules to ensure safety and compliance with the law. This comprehensive guide will delve into the main traffic rules in Malaga, covering various aspects of road safety and regulations.

Driving Side and Road Signs:

In Malaga, as in the rest of Spain, traffic moves on the right side of the road. International visitors should be aware of this, especially when renting vehicles. Road signs are standardized across the European Union and use symbols and colors to convey important information. Pay attention to speed limits, priority signs and warnings to navigate the city safely.

Roundabout:

Priority at the roundabout
– Those traveling on a roundabout have the right of way over drivers intending to enter the roundabout.

-If you are turning right and/or going straight, get into the right lane at the roundabout.

-If you are making a left turn or a turnaround, move into the left lane; on the way to the exit, gradually move into the right lane. You should not take the right lane when turning or going left so as not to block cars going straight.

–You cannot directly exit the roundabout by driving in the inner or left lane of the roundabout. It is necessary to change to the right lane in good time (warning of this maneuver with turn signals).

Below is an illustration showing permitted (“Bien” ) and prohibited maneuvers at traffic circles (“MAL”)

roundabout

 

Speed Limits:

Speed limits in Malaga are strictly enforced. The maximum general speed for vehicles on highways and expressways is 120 km/h, unless otherwise specified. On rural roads the speed is 100 km/h or 90 km/h depending on the width of the lanes. On urban roads, the maximum speed is 50 km/h. Keeping to the speed limits is essential for both safety and avoiding fines. There are many speed cameras in Andalusia that record even the smallest violations. For example, driving at 82km/h with a speed limit of 80 can result in a traffic ticket if you pass a speed camera.

Seat Belts and Child Restraints:

The most important traffic rule is to wear a seat belt for all passengers in a vehicle. Failure to do so can result in a fine. In addition, child safety systems are mandatory for children shorter than 135 cm, ensuring their safety during the journey. Car rental companies often provide car seats for an additional fee, but there are rental companies such as All Cylinders Car Rental where car seats are always included in car rental prices. In Spain, minors shorter than 135 cm must always use an approved car seat adapted to their height and weight. The car seat should always be attached to the rear seat of the car. Lack of a suitable child seat in the car is considered a serious offense, resulting in a fine of €200 and 3 penalty points.

Mobile Phones and Distracted Driving:

Using cell phones while driving is strictly prohibited by traffic rules. Hands-free devices are allowed, but it is advisable to stop to make or receive calls to minimize distractions. It is not allowed to use earbuds and full headphones while driving. Penalties for using a cell phone and headphones while driving can be severe, including fines and license points.

Alcohol and Drug Consumption:

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense under traffic regulations. The maximum permitted alcohol content is 0.5 grams per liter in blood, which is equivalent to 0.25 milligrams per liter of exhaled air. Professional and novice drivers have an even lower limit of 0.3 grams per liter in blood, equivalent to 0.15 milligrams per liter of exhaled air.

Infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians:

Malaga, like many European cities, promotes sustainable modes of transportation, including cycling. Dedicated bike lanes exist in some areas, emphasizing the city’s commitment to providing safe spaces for cyclists. Pedestrian infrastructure, including crossings, road signs and signals, increases safety and contributes to a comprehensive and inclusive traffic environment.

Motorways in Spain:

Driving on Spanish roads is quite comfortable. Spain is known for the good condition of its road infrastructure, which it has significantly expanded with the help of EU funds. Major cities are connected by a dense network of toll highways and freeways. The number of connections available means that traffic intensity is low and therefore driving comfort remains high.

However, thanks to the use of many roundabouts and the exclusion of the city center from car traffic, major traffic jams can be avoided. The highest traffic intensity occurs in the morning (7:00-9:00) – when going to work – and in the evening (17:00-19:00), when returning home. In addition, you should take into account the possibility of traffic jams near popular coastal resorts, where tourists come during the holiday season.

Tarifas temporada normal
Tarifas temporada especial

When you rent a car from car rental company All Cylinders located at Malaga Airport, our staff will be happy to share with you information such as descriptions of interesting places to visit, directions, parking, traffic radar and other information that will make your time traveling in Andalusia easier and more enjoyable.