Spain's traffic lights are changing from October 1: Here's what drivers need to know
A new rule will stop flashing amber lights appearing at the same time as green pedestrian signals at crossings across Spain
Drivers in Spain will see an important change at traffic lights from October 1 when a combination of signals that has long caused confusion at pedestrian crossings will no longer be permitted.
Under the new rules, vehicles will no longer be able to have a flashing amber light while pedestrians have a green light to cross. Instead, the vehicle signal will show red, making it much clearer who has priority.
The change comes under Royal Decree 518/2026, approved in June as part of a package of measures aimed at improving safety for vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and people using electric scooters.
These groups account for just under half of all traffic deaths in Spain. In urban areas, however, they make up more than 80% of victims, with pedestrians accounting for around half of those deaths.
Until now, drivers at some junctions have been faced with a flashing amber signal allowing them to continue with caution at the same time as pedestrians have a green light to cross.
Although drivers are required to give way to pedestrians when necessary, the combination can create confusion, particularly at junctions where vehicles are turning or where visibility is restricted. A large van, lorry or bus, for example, can also make it difficult for a driver to see a pedestrian who has already started crossing.
From October 1, the two signals will no longer be allowed to operate together at pedestrian crossings controlled by traffic lights. The flashing amber light will be replaced by a steady red signal when pedestrians have the green light.
The aim is to make priority immediately obvious and reduce the risk of collisions, particularly at junctions, road exits and crossings where visibility is poor.
The change doesn't mean that flashing amber lights are being removed from Spanish roads altogether. They will continue to be used in other situations and drivers will still be expected to proceed with caution and give way where necessary.
There may also be a gradual introduction rather than an overnight change across every Spanish town and city. Municipalities have been given time to adapt the programming of their traffic lights to meet the new requirements.
The existing penalty for running a red light also remains unchanged at €200 and four points off the driver's licence.
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