Roundabouts – The simple truth

The subject of roundabouts here in Spain continues to cause confusion and, it must be said, some annoyance to our clients. Here we try and clear up once and for all – What is the best approach (no pun intended) to roundabouts here in Spain?

Once upon a time, not so very long ago, Spain had no roundabouts at all. However, like much else in Spain, rapid growth and massive changes to the road system have left plenty of drivers confused. The only answer to the problem is to drive defensively. One must simply assume that the car in front (or on your left if you enter the roundabout in the left hand lane going a little quicker than him!) will either go right, straight or cut across the front of your car and turn left. Indeed, it might keep going round and around! This errant car is not likely to be indicating either!

Be aware, that if the police are called, then the law is apparently very much a grey area. There is plenty of evidence to suggest that the person entering the roundabout first has right of way. If you hit them (as they cut you up from the left) you may be held responsible. It’s a little infuriating, but it’s the reality of the situation, and again our advise is – Drive carefully, and assume the car in front will do the worst.

This article was written on Tuesday, January 5th, 2010
It's filed under: "Motoring in Spain"

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