British tourists driving in Spain may soon face a major change as experts are pushing for a review of a driving law. Experts have urged the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) to review the speed limit for overtaking in the popular European destination. 

Since the 2022 elimination of the 20-kilometre-per-hour overtaking buffer on standard roads, experts have repeatedly voiced concerns about the potential ramifications. Three years on, newly released data appears to validate those warnings. In a recent discussion on Poniendo las calles, the early morning programme on COPE radio, Carlos Moreno and motor specialist Alfonso García ‘Motorman’ highlighted a worrying reality: “Fatalities during overtaking manoeuvres have increased by more than 50% over the last three years.”

According to the data, deaths have risen from 33 to 51 in just one year following the implementation of this measure. 

The issue is further exacerbated by a 20% rise in both minor and serious accidents, as highlighted by research from the University of Zaragoza. 

These incidents are occurring on conventional roads, which are already considered inherently hazardous due to the precision, adequate spacing, and crucial safety buffer required for overtaking manoeuvres.

Mr García explained: “Eliminating that margin can be the difference between life and death.”

The ‘Motorman’ stated: “The DGT should review it”, insisting that this regulation has generated “uncertainty, defencelessness, long queues, traffic jams, poorer flow and an increased risk when overtaking.”

Carlos Moreno also wanted to send a direct message to his regular audience, composed of many professional drivers: “Your life comes first.

“There is a lot of pressure to arrive, deliver, and meet schedules, but you must ease off the accelerator.”