Drivers in Spain will start seeing a new road sign at junctions monitored by red-light cameras. The sign, coded S-991c and officially titled “red light control”, is designed to replace the variety of local warnings previously used by different councils.
What it looks like
The sign shows a red traffic light alongside symbols representing electronic monitoring and vehicles. It is the same across the whole country, so drivers can recognise a camera-controlled junction wherever they are.
How the cameras work
Sensors in the road detect when a vehicle crosses the stop line after the light has turned red. This triggers cameras that record:
- the vehicle’s number plate;
- the date and exact time of the offence;
- images of the vehicle passing the light.
The evidence is processed automatically and a fine is issued to the registered owner, without the need for a police officer at the scene.
The penalty
Running a red light is classed as a serious offence under Spanish traffic law. It carries:
- a €200 fine;
- the loss of four points from the driver’s licence.
The penalty applies regardless of speed, so a driver crossing slowly on red is treated in the same way as one doing so at speed. As with most traffic fines in Spain, paying within the voluntary period usually halves the amount, but the points are still deducted.
Why the change
The traffic authorities say a single standard sign will make it easier for drivers to know when a junction is monitored, encourage compliance and improve safety at busy intersections.
A reminder on amber
Spanish rules require drivers to stop at an amber light unless they are so close to the line that they cannot stop safely. Accelerating to “beat the lights” is one of the most common causes of crashes at junctions — and, at a monitored junction, one of the quickest ways to lose four points.
