The DGT advise of a 200 euro fine for not using roundabouts correctly

Apart from driving on the ‘wrong side of the road’, there is one other thing that Brits find incredulous and frustrating about driving in Spain, including the Canary Islands, and that is how drivers use roundabouts. Twenty five years ago there weren’t many roundabouts on Spanish roads, meaning many drivers had their licences before they existed, and therefore weren't taught how to use one when they took their driving tests.

According to data from the DGT (General Directorate of Traffic), one in three accidents that happen at roundabouts are caused by driver's not giving enough space, driving too fast, or not understanding who has the right of way.

The DGT rules state that "at a roundabout, priority is given to the vehicles that are already circulating around it. Accessing without yielding the right-of-way can cause a side collision and accidents between several vehicles”.

The penalty for accessing a roundabout without giving right of way could cost you up to four points on your driving license and a 200-euro fine.

As any driver knows, another of the problems at roundabouts is caused by those who do not use the cars indicators to signal their intentions, or leave their lane without taking into account the traffic in the right-hand lane.

This problem is common in busier areas, especially in large cities, where roundabouts are bigger, have more lanes, and a higher volume of traffic.