People who text on their phones while walking are becoming a menace, not only to other pedestrians but also traffic and the DGT Spanish traffic department has issued a stern warning in order to reduce the number of unnecessary accidents, some of which are fatal. Spanish authorities are preparing to crack down on jaywalkers, zebra-crossing abusers, phone zombies and pavement rebels the DGT has stated on its social media platforms.
The DGT says distracted walking is a growing hazard and people could face a fine of €200 (£170) for ignoring traffic signals or directions from a traffic officer. Walking across motorways or dual carriageways will be met with a fine of €80. Failing to use zebra crossings can result in a €80 fine.
“‘Pedestrian compliance with traffic rules is essential for safe mobility and avoiding fines,” the DGT has warned. The DGT said: “Use the zebra crossings properly – they’re there for a reason.
Don’t use your phone while crossing – no, not even for a selfie. Eyes up, feet down, and only step out if it’s safe for you and the drivers. Newsflash: the road doesn’t revolve around you. Obey traffic signals. Stay off motorways and dual carriageways – they’re for wheels, not heels.”
However, very soon people in Mallorca are going to have to keep their eyes on the traffic, be they drivers, especially all those dreaded tourists in hire cars who supposedly cause all of the island’s traffic problems, or pedestrians. Spanish traffic law is being tweaked and it spells danger for Mallorca.
Never mind Bulletin readers who have been polled over the years, the vast majority of my friends from mainland Spain are appalled by the dreadful way in which Mallorcans drive. Well hold on to your seat belt. It is being proposed that learner drivers, currently only permitted to venture out on the roads with an official instructor, will be able to put their feet down with an adult driver who has had a licence for over a year.
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This thread has gone a bit Monty python.
Stan The ManBring back hanging!
Justin FlationWhat's that got to do with road safety? They are people working and trying to get by. So billion dollar companies like Gucci and Adidas might lose out, boo boo!
In the US, when you are 16, you have 2 semesters of Driver Ed in school. Then you go to DMV, and if you pass the written and driving course tests, then you get your permit. At that point, you can drive if there is an adult in the car who has had their license for 1 year. After 2 years of permit, you get your license. None of this Driving Instructor business.
How much is the fine for selling counterfeit merchandise outside the cathedral?
WALKING? What about whilst DRIVING?? I daily see people using the phones for talk, and worst text, with utter impunity. I was behind a guy in Cala Major, texting behind the wheel in a very eye catching classic car, open top, no fear of being caught. A hard crackdown with big fines would soon spread the word, nobody drives without a seatbelt any more do they?
money money money , mike foxtrots never haveenough .
Who's going to police this? Id imagine plod have better things to do, much as it is, a pain in the arse
Better late than never.
Totally agree. People have been seen walking across the road, in front of Vehicles moving at speed. Whilst talking , texting on Mobile phones. Not to mention walking into people on the pavement areas.