The Only Acceptable Situations for Using Your Car Horn in Spain

[Anderson]

Although driving can be enjoyable, those new to driving in Spain may encounter some unfamiliar rules. In Spain, there are only three situations in which it is legal to use your car's horn, and violating this can result in a fine of up to 200 euros. Spain's Guardia Civil recently clarified these rules via social media to help drivers avoid any penalties.

 

The three permissible situations for horn usage are: to warn of an impending accident, to alert another driver that you are overtaking, and to signal an emergency situation where you are transporting a sick person to the hospital. Using your horn for any other reason is illegal under Article 110 of Spain's General Traffic Regulations.

 

If you come across an R-319 sign, which is a circular sign with a red outer ring and a horn in the center with a line through it, you should refrain from using your horn. These signs are typically placed near places such as hospitals and nursing homes, where noise pollution is particularly disruptive. Violating this rule can result in a fine of up to 200 euros.

 

R-319 / R-310 sign

 

It is essential to be cautious when encountering these signs, as breaking the rule can result in a fine and even penalty points. While being caught using your horn incorrectly is rare, it is still possible to be fined, so it is best to exercise caution.

 

In Spain, fines for incorrect use of your car's horn can range from 80 to 200 euros, depending on the violation of traffic regulations. The use of acoustic signals with shrill sound or without legal reason can result in an 80-euro fine, while driving a non-priority vehicle with special acoustic signaling devices can lead to a 200-euro fine.

 

Violation of R-310, which prohibits output of acoustic signals, may also result in an 80-euro fine. As such, it's important to think twice before using your car's horn in Spain to avoid potential hefty fines.