Connect with us

%

Driving With A Coat In Spain? €200 Fine

Published

on

driving-with-a-coat-in-spain?-e200-fine

Wearing a bulky coat while driving in Spain could lead to a fine of up to €200 Credit : KAZLOVA IRYNA, Shutterstock

It might feel like common sense to keep your coat on in winter – but in Spain, doing so behind the wheel could actually land you a fine of up to €200. And it’s not about the coat itself, but how it affects your driving.

As temperatures drop, many drivers instinctively get into the car still wrapped up in thick jackets or padded coats. But Spain’s traffic authority, the DGT, is warning that this everyday habit can become a problem – especially if it limits your movement or affects how your seatbelt works.

Spain driving rules: why wearing a coat can get you fined

There’s no specific law that says “you can’t drive with a coat on” – and that’s where many people get confused.

What the law actually says is broader. Under Spain’s General Traffic Regulations, drivers must always maintain full control of the vehicle, have complete freedom of movement, and keep a clear field of vision.

In other words, anything that interferes with those basics can become an issue – including what you’re wearing.

A bulky winter coat, for example, can restrict how easily you turn the steering wheel, shift gears or check your surroundings. Even something as simple as turning your head quickly can become harder if your jacket is too stiff or tight around the neck.

And that’s where the risk of a fine comes in.

Seatbelt warning: the detail many drivers overlook

One of the biggest concerns raised by the DGT isn’t just movement – it’s safety.

Thick coats can prevent your seatbelt from sitting properly against your body. Instead of being snug, the belt sits over layers of padding, creating extra slack. In the event of an accident, that gap can reduce the effectiveness of the seatbelt and increase the risk of injury.

It’s a small detail, but an important one – and one that traffic officers are increasingly paying attention to.

When you could actually be fined – and how much it costs

Because there’s no explicit ban, enforcement largely depends on the judgement of traffic police or Guardia Civil officers.

If they believe your clothing is affecting your ability to drive safely – whether that’s limiting your movement, reducing visibility or compromising the seatbelt – you could be fined.

In most cases, penalties range between €80 and €200, depending on how serious the situation is considered. The good news is that it typically doesn’t involve penalty points on your licence.

Situations that are more likely to lead to a fine include:

  • very bulky or padded jackets that make steering or manoeuvring difficult
  • high collars or hoods that restrict neck movement or side visibility
  • seatbelts that don’t sit properly because of thick clothing

Simple advice to stay warm – and avoid problems

The solution is straightforward.

Before setting off, take a moment to warm up the car and check that you can move freely. If your coat feels restrictive, it’s worth taking it off – even if just for the journey.

The DGT’s advice is clear: your seatbelt should sit close to your body, and your movements should feel natural and unrestricted at all times.

For expats in Spain – especially those not used to local driving rules – this is one of those small but important differences that can catch you off guard.

Because sometimes, it’s not the obvious things that lead to fines.

It’s the habits you don’t think twice about.

%

Lucy Aman In Marbella With Open-Mic Night

Published

on

lucy-aman-in-marbella-with-open-mic-night

Amans World Comedy is bringing back its free English comedy open mic night to Marbella on Saturday, April 25, with doors opening at 7pm and the show starting at 7:30pm. This laugh along event is a cheerful, easy, welcoming night out. Encouraging back those who know the comedy scene in the area or inviting in novices who are brand new to the circuit and never been to an open mic evening before.

The night is hosted by Lucy Amans, a hilarious British stand-up comedian based on the coast. Amans has been described as a rising force in the region’s English-speaking comedy scene. She regularly hosts her ‘Amans World Comedy’ open-mic nights across in different towns to give everyone a taste of the laughter on offer, she has a reputation for observational humour rooted in expat life. Relocating here in 2016 she has since expanded her gigs and helped to grow a following and supportive community for English-language comedy in southern Spain.

A perfect opportunity to discover new and upcoming comedic talent

On the night, audiences can expect a varied line-up of up to 10 comedy acts, mixing emerging performers trying out their set with more experienced comics delivering their well oiled jokes and tales. Entry is free for both performers and audience, with non-obligatory donations collected at the end for anyone who wants to support the night. The evening is the perfect opportunity to discover new local talent, meet fellow artists, and be part of a supportive and vibrant community. 

The show takes place at La Clave Bailes Latinos, a well-known Marbella venue dedicated to Latin dance. La Clave is the the only dance club in Marbella focused solely on Latin dance, with one of the best dance floors on the coast, with seating inside and outside and a lively weekend atmosphere. Perfectly set up for a night of laughter. 

If you do fancy performing at this or a future show,  Whether you are a seasoned performer or looking to share your talent for the first time, our stage is open to you, just message ⁨+34 711 037980.

Even though the event is free, tickets should be reserved via Eventbrite

La Clava is centrally located near Plaza del Mar, underneath the restaurant Casa Nostra, at Calle Camilo Jose Cela 12. 

Continue Reading

%

Spain’s Prime Minister Declares “the End Of The Right” At Barcelona Political Summit

Published

on

spain’s-prime-minister-declares-“the-end-of-the-right”-at-barcelona-political-summit

Sánchez said that progressive movements should interpret current global developments. Photo credit: Pool Moncloa

A progressive political summit held in Barcelona this Saturday, April 19, brought together political leaders, policymakers and representatives from Spain and several other countries to discuss shared approaches to economic policy, social protection and wider governance challenges. The event, known as the Global Progressive Mobilisation, took place at a time of ongoing political debate across Europe, with discussions focusing on how governments can respond to economic pressure, social inequality, climate policy and institutional reform.

The meeting formed part of a wider international network of progressive and social democratic forums aimed at strengthening coordination between like-minded parties on policy direction and political strategy.

Criticism of opposition and political messaging

Sánchez used part of his speech to criticise right-wing political parties, arguing that they lacked coherent long-term policy programmes and instead relied on division in public debate. He said that these political forces were increasingly disconnected from public priorities and claimed that their political influence was weakening in comparison with progressive movements across Europe.

He also addressed how political identities have been framed in public debate in recent years, saying that progressive ideas had often been reduced to negative labels or used as political insults. Sánchez said this situation was changing and argued that progressive movements should reclaim confidence in their political positions and defend them openly in public discourse.

He told delegates that political debate should not be shaped by stigma or fear of ideological labelling, but by open defence of policy choices.

Migration policy referenced in speech

Sánchez also referred to migration policy during his address, highlighting Spain’s recent approach to regularising undocumented migrants. He said that Spain should not be associated with xenophobia and described migration as part of the country’s social and historical development. He referred to government estimates that up to 500,000 migrants could be affected by the regularisation process approved by the Council of Ministers, which is currently being implemented.

He argued that migration policy should be managed through legal and structured frameworks that support integration into the labour market and ensure social stability. The remarks were delivered as part of a broader argument about inclusion and economic policy within progressive governance models.

International themes and policy discussions

Sánchez placed his remarks within a wider international context, referring to global instability and the need for cooperation between governments. He positioned progressive administrations as being committed to multilateral approaches in addressing shared challenges, including economic regulation, social policy and institutional governance.

The Barcelona summit included participation from international political figures from Europe and other regions, reflecting its role as a forum for coordination between progressive and social democratic movements.

Across the summit, delegates took part in structured discussions on economic inequality, labour conditions, housing affordability, climate policy and institutional reform. These issues were examined alongside broader concerns about public services, democratic governance and responses to economic pressure.

Sánchez frames speech around political shift

In his closing remarks, Sánchez said that progressive movements should interpret current global developments as evidence of a broader political shift. He said that “the time of the right has come to an end” and added that progressive governments would “bring a new era of progress”, framing his comments as part of long-term political change rather than a single electoral cycle or national context. He made these remarks in front of more than 5,000 attendees, including delegates from progressive parties and organisations taking part in the summit.

He told attendees that opposition forces were not strengthening but instead reacting to what he described as longer-term changes in public attitudes and political expectations. According to Sánchez, right-wing and far-right political movements were becoming more vocal because they were aware of declining influence, rather than increasing support. He also argued that progressive politics should focus on governance, long-term policy planning and institutional stability, rather than short-term political messaging.

Conclusion of the Barcelona summit

The summit concluded following Sánchez’s closing speech, which summarised the political themes of the event and marked the end of the gathering. Organisers described the meeting as part of ongoing coordination between progressive political movements, with further discussions expected in future international forums.

The Barcelona summit includes participation from progressive political movements in different countries. Sánchez’s remarks are expected to be referenced in political debate in Spain and internationally.

Continue Reading

%

Austria Investigates Suspected Extortion After Baby Food Recall And Rat Poison Fears

Published

on

austria-investigates-suspected-extortion-after-baby-food-recall-and-rat-poison-fears

There is suspicion that some units of HiPP baby food “carrot with potato, 190g” may have been adulterated with rat poison or similar. Photo credit: Hipp.at

Austria has ordered the withdrawal of certain baby food products from sale after a food safety alert linked to a suspected case of tampering. The action was taken after concerns were raised that some jars of baby food may have been interfered with before reaching consumers. The alert has led to a precautionary recall while investigations are carried out by food safety authorities and police.

The recall involves specific baby food jars sold in Austria through retail outlets, with authorities advising consumers not to use the affected products and to return them to stores.

Food safety authority response

The Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES) confirmed its involvement in the case and said the recall was issued as a precautionary measure. According to the agency, acting in the context of a criminal investigation, there is suspicion that some units of HiPP baby food “carrot with potato, 190g” may have been adulterated with rat poison. Authorities also confirmed that a seized tampered jar tested positive for rat poison (bromadiolone) following examination by the Burgenland State Criminal Investigation Office. The exact extent of any further contamination has not been confirmed.

The exact nature of any substance has not been confirmed. AGES is responsible for monitoring food safety standards in Austria and issuing alerts where there is a potential risk to public health. In this case, it has worked alongside law enforcement and the manufacturer to assess the situation.

Manufacturer issues recall

The producer of the affected baby food, HiPP, issued a recall covering specific jars sold in Austrian retail outlets, including SPAR supermarkets. The company said it could not exclude the possibility that products may have been tampered with before reaching consumers. As a result, it initiated a precautionary withdrawal of the affected batch.

The recall applies to a specific product line of vegetable-based baby food. Consumers were advised not to use the items and to return them to the point of sale.

Police involvement and investigation

Austrian police in the Burgenland region have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alert. Officers have confirmed they are examining whether criminal activity is involved and have appealed for information from the public.

At this stage, authorities have not confirmed how or where any alleged tampering may have occurred. Investigators are working alongside food safety officials to determine whether the issue affects a limited batch or a wider distribution. No arrests have been reported, and officials have not confirmed a motive or identified any suspects.

Public safety measures

Authorities have emphasised that the recall is being treated as a precautionary measure while investigations continue. Consumers who have purchased the affected baby food have been advised not to feed it to children and to return it to retailers for a refund or replacement.

Retailers have been instructed to remove the affected products from shelves immediately. Food safety agencies in Austria routinely issue recalls when there is a potential risk, even if contamination or tampering has not been confirmed. This approach is intended to minimise exposure while technical checks are carried out.

Nature of the investigation

The case remains under active investigation involving both law enforcement and food safety specialists. Officials are examining supply chains, distribution records and product handling procedures to establish whether the issue occurred during production, transport or retail storage.

Authorities have confirmed that at least one seized and tampered jar tested positive for rat poison, while further testing is ongoing to determine the full scope of affected products. The investigation is ongoing, and officials have stated that further updates will be provided once more information becomes available.

Context and next steps

Baby food products are subject to strict safety controls in Austria and across the European Union. Recalls of this nature are typically rare and are issued when there is any indication that consumer safety could be compromised. At present, the recall is linked to a confirmed positive test in at least one seized product alongside an ongoing criminal investigation into suspected tampering involving rat poison as stated in police-sourced reporting via the Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety.

Authorities are expected to continue testing and inspections in the coming days as they work to determine the full circumstances behind the alert.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Advertisement

Spanish Real Estate Agents

Tags

Trending

Copyright © 2017 Spanish Property & News