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Tourists and British expats heading to Spain for some winter sun could be caught out if they are unaware of a series of simple driving laws.
Motorists risk being slapped with fines of up to £172 (€200) for breaking little-known rules as the temperature falls.
The popular European holiday centre has many similar rules to the UK but some differences could see unaware tourists caught out.
Unlike in Britain, motorists could be slapped with the maximum charge for driving a vehicle with tinted or coloured rear windows without official authorisation.
This is one of the most common infractions during winter months and is likely to catch out many tourists heading abroad this December.
Motorists could also be hit with the maximum £172 (200€) fee if their windscreen or windows are damaged to the point where visibility is affected.
Placing unauthorised stickers or paper on the windscreen or windows can also see motorists hit with a hefty charge.
A maximum sanction can also be applied if the number plate is partially covered and cannot be properly read. Slightly lower £68 (80€) fees can be issued to motorists who use windscreen wipers in a bad condition.
This is because road users may be unable to properly see the road ahead which could have a big impact on safety.
Not properly clearing ice from the windscreen or driving with excessive dirt covering the glass may also see drivers slapped with smaller charges.
In Spain, it is not mandatory to carry snow chains inside a vehicle at all times. However, these should be used on routes where the R-412 sign is displayed by officials.
Experts at the AA have warned failing to follow the rules will likely see motorists penalised by police officers.
They explained: “If you are planning to drive in mountainous areas or other snowy conditions, it’s recommended that you carry and use snow chains. If you don’t, the police may stop you from driving if they decide the conditions are too dangerous.”
The longer evenings mean road users must follow strict headlight rules to avoid being issued a £172 (200€) charge.
Dipped headlights must be used when visibility is poor while full-beam headlights must not be switched on in built-up residential areas.
But, Britons travelling abroad must ensure they have fitted beam deflectors before the sun sets.
The AA commented: “Headlamp beam deflectors need to be used by UK drivers to adapt to driving on the right-hand side of the road. These stop headlights from dazzling other drivers.”
