200,000 tourists a year fail to pay traffic fines in the Canary Islands
Tourism continues to boost the Canary Islands' economy, but it has also created a growing problem on the roads: thousands of foreign drivers are leaving without paying their fines. According to Spain’s Directorate General of Traffic (DGT), many offences committed by foreign motorists, particularly tourists, remain unresolved because the drivers return home without settling the penalties.
Recent case in Tenerife
The issue made headlines again recently when the Guardia Civil reported eight tourists on the TF-24 road in the Teide National Park. They were spotted leaning out of a moving car without seatbelts, an offence that carries serious consequences. The driver received a fine of €500 and six penalty points, while each passenger was fined €200. These were paid as deposits before leaving Spain, but in many cases, the sanctioning process is never fully enforced once tourists return home.
Lack of enforcement
European rules allow countries to share driver information for traffic fines, but in the Canary Islands, the system isn’t working well. Authorities believe that up to 200,000 tourists a year avoid paying, which locals see as unfair since they face strict penalties for the same offences.
A recurring concern
The problem isn’t just about unpaid fines; it’s also a matter of safety. Many of these offences are classed as serious, with drivers ignoring basic road rules and putting themselves and others in danger.
For now, local drivers and officials are asking for tougher controls to make sure tourists and residents follow the rules and face the same responsibility on the roads.
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