Travel
Britons in Spain given fresh guidance on holidaying with children – heed warning or risk being fined
Britons heading to holiday hotspot Spain have been issued a new warning regarding child car safety.
Those hiring a car during their visit have been advised by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
The FCDO said: “Seatbelts are compulsory for all passengers in the front and back seats.
“Children under 1.35m in height must use an approved child safety seat secured on the back seat. Children are only permitted to travel in the front seat of the car if the rear seats are already occupied by other children or if the vehicle does not have rear seats.
Spain is an incredibly popular destination among Britons
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“Car hire agencies can provide child seats, so let them know you need one when you reserve the car. Incorrect installation of a child seat or not wearing a seatbelt can be considered a serious offence and met with fines.”
The FCDO provided Britons with further guidance on driving in Spain. Holidaymakers were advised to consult the FCDO’s information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Spain guide. This guide lists the driving regulations and other legal requirements travellers need to be aware of.
The FCDO continued: “Spain has strict drink-driving laws. Police regularly carry out roadside checks for alcohol and drugs. Penalties include fines, loss of licence and a prison sentence.
“The police can give you on-the-spot fines for a variety of driving offences including speeding. If you accept the fine and pay within 20 days, it will be reduced by 50 per cent. More information on how to pay is available on the Spanish driving agency website.
“It is illegal to use a mobile phone when driving, even if you have pulled over to the side of the road. You must be completely away from the road. Using an earpiece is also illegal. Only completely hands-free units are allowed.”
Britons in Spain should consult the FCDO for further information on transport risks, including road travel, driving a British car abroad, driving regulations, low-emission zones and taxis.
Holidaymakers in Spain were recently issued a warning about lost or stolen passports.
They were advised: “If your passport is lost or stolen, you must renew your passport or apply for an emergency travel document. You cannot use a police report to leave Spain.”
With Spain being an incredibly popular holiday destination among Britons, it is always advisable to keep an eye out for fresh travel guidance.
The FCDO provides information on crime in Spain, including vehicle crime, attacks and sexual assault, drink spiking and alcohol and scams.
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Spain warning: ‘Incorrect installation of a child seat or not wearing a seatbelt can be considered a serious offence and met with fines’
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Britons on holiday should be aware that “demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities”. Holidaymakers were told to adhere to the advice of police and local authorities.
The FCDO said: “While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you’re near areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder.”
Holidaymakers should remain vigilant against the threat of terror attacks. Britons were warned: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”
Consult the UK Counter Terrorism Policing’s information, advice on staying safe abroad and guidance on what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. The FCDO also provides information on how Britons can reduce their risk from terror when abroad.
The FCDO advised: “Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.”
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