There is a motorway in Canarias where traffic seems to follow the UK Highway Code rather than the Spanish one. Apparently, there are several sections where drivers prefer to stay in the left lane instead of the right as per the regulations.
A user from Tiktok @jsyerto, who hails from Gran Canaria, recently posted a video showing the traffic on the TF-1 motorway in Tenerife, heading south, and was surprised to find that most vehicles “are registered in the left lane”.
This situation posed a dilemma for the video’s protagonist as, being in the right lane, the theory states that they shouldn’t overtake, but they are compelled to do so because ‘their’ lane is emptier.
Traffic Fines from the Directorate General of Traffic
In Spain, improper use of the left lane on motorways and highways is regulated and can result in penalties. Traffic regulations state that the left lane should only be used for overtaking, and once the overtaking is done, it is mandatory to return to the right lane.
Traffic congestion on the Southern highway heading to the capital of Gran Canaria. / T. M. R.
If a driver is using the left lane without overtaking, they can be fined for not following lane circulation rules, which could be considered reckless or negligent driving. Fines for this type of violation vary, but it is generally classified as a severe infringement.
Penalties for severe violations in Spain can include financial fines ranging from 200 euros up to 500 euros, depending on the circumstances and seriousness of the violation. Additionally, this violation may lead to the loss of points on the driving license, usually between 2 and 4 points.
