The UK government has issued a warning when it comes to Brits heading overseas to Spain. And it’s one that could cost you dearly if you don’t pay attention.
Changes in official government advice if you’re heading to Spain were published today (29 May) by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
The Foreign Office regularly reviews official government advice when it comes to Brits heading to every corner of the globe. This includes the likes of Australia.
And it is not the first piece of updated advice the Foreign Office has put out there this year about Spain, with a fresh passport warning issued just weeks ago.
Official guidance is updated often and can be relatively minor. But it also includes significant updates regarding warnings and insurance problems.
Entry requirements are also kept up to date, so it’s pretty important to check if you’re not sure.
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A crowded Spanish beach (Getty Stock Images)
Updated travel advice for Spain
Today, the Foreign Office updated its safety and security information when it comes to Brits heading to Spain.
It’s not the first warning issued for Spanish travel in recent weeks, with massive rule changes also brought in that massively alters why some people head abroad in the first place.
The new update concerns car safety requirements that if not obeyed, can get you in trouble with the law.
In particular, it concerns car child safety requirements.
What does it say?
“Seatbelts are compulsory for all passengers in the front and back seats,” the Foreign Office writes.
“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.”
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Obey the rules when it comes to driving with kids (Getty Stock Images)
There’s also advice on what you have to do if you’re hiring a motor.
It says: “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.
“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.”
In Spain, 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%.
Featured Image Credit: Getty Stock Images
Topics: Travel, UK News, World News, Europe, Holiday, Driving, Cars