Yes that popular catchphrase is being changed from prizes to points with the introduction on 1 July 2006 in Spain of the new legislation governing driving licences with points.
Similar to the UK where point penalties have been in place for years and following the successful introduction of the points scheme in France which has resulted in a significant decrease in serious road traffic accidents, it is now Spain´s turn.
So how does it work?
Well each driver of more than 3 years experience is allocated 12 points and those drivers of less than 3 years experience 8 points. For each driving offence, points are deducted from your allocation and once you have nil point you lose your licence.
How long will I lose my licence for?
This depends on the driving offence but for a string of minor offences you will lose your driving licence the first time for six months. If you do not learn your lesson and after you regain your licence you continue to commit offences, then the second time around you will lose your licence for more than twelve months.
How can I recover my licence or reduce my dreaded points?
By being good and attending specially designed driving classes improving your driving ability and making you aware of the errors of your ways. By attending classes, no more than 1 every 4 years, you can knock off 4 points. My next door neighbour who happens to be a driving instructor is delighted at the increased work he is likely to see. Alternatively if you behave for 3 years without committing further offences you will be granted a clean slate.
How much will I be fined?
It depends on the offence but fines will range from 90 to 600 euros.
Below are some of the offences for which you will receive points.
6 points
Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs
Not consenting to an alcohol or drugs test
Driving in the wrong direction
Dangerous driving
Drivivng over 180 km on the motorway
4 points
Throwing dangerous objects which could cause accidents or fire.
Negligent driving
Failing to give way and to stop at a stop sign
Placing cyclists in danger
Overtaking dangerously
3 points
Failing to maintain a safe distance between you and the next vehicle
Using a mobile phone whilst driving
Stopping or parking in dangerous places
2 points
Driving without using a seat belt
Minors not in a child seat
Driving without an approved helmet
For more information on the new legislation visit
http://www.euroresidentes.com/seguridad/carne_conducir_puntos.htm
Alex Radford is an English Solicitor & Abogado comunitario at De Cotta McKenna y Santafé Tel 00 34 952 52 70 14 Fax 00 34 952 52 34 28 Email: alexradford@decottalaw.net website: www.decottalaw.com
