New Mobile Speed Cameras in Spain:
The Spanish Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) is rolling out a new generation of mobile speed cameras – “radares de carro” – mounted on wheeled platforms.
These cameras are already being tested and will be deployed more broadly starting in 2026. They are part of an initiative to reduce speeding, increase road safety, and generate fines where traditional fixed cameras are not feasible.
Below are the key features, implications for drivers, and legal tips you should be aware of.
Key Features of the New System
Portability: Unlike fixed speed cameras, these mobile units can be moved around on wheels to different locations. This allows them to be placed in roads or stretches where installing permanent cameras is difficult.
Power & Technology: They don’t need an external power source: they run on batteries lasting several days. They use laser technology that can monitor several lanes simultaneously.
Real-Time Data Transmission: The units are WiFi-enabled and transmit data in real time to DGT servers so that reports of speeding can be issued more or less immediately.
Pilot Use & Scope: These mobile cameras have already been trialled in Catalonia. During a ten-month trial, over 150,000 fines were issued. Some spikes were observed: for example nearly 10,000 fines in just three days after the cameras were deployed on highways AP-7 and C-31.
Implementation Plan: Initially they will be used on temporary stretches of road, typically two or three kilometres, especially in areas where fixed cameras are hard to install. The goal is to expand their use throughout Spain as the system becomes established.
Why This Matters
Enhanced Safety: Speeding is among the leading causes of fatal road accidents in Spain. In 2024, 211 fatal accidents were attributed in major part to speeding.
Deterrence: The DGT aims not only to issue fines but to achieve a deterrent effect, especially in zones that are high risk (construction zones, busy highways, stretches prone to accidents).
Legal and Financial Impact on Drivers: Very suddenly being subject to speed enforcement in many more locations may lead to unexpected fines for those unfamiliar with the new deployments.
Legal Considerations & Advice for Clients
As SGM Abogados, here are the legal implications, what to watch out for, and how you can avoid or contest fines.
Notification and Visibility
Ensure that the placement of mobile speed cameras complies with the requirements under Spanish road traffic law regarding signage, notice, visibility, etc. If cameras are placed in areas without adequate warning signs, or if their deployment breaches procedural rules, there may be grounds to challenge a fine.Measurement Accuracy and Evidence
Laser technology and mobile units must meet technical and calibration standards. If a fine is issued, the driver has a right to request evidence: calibration certificates, details of measurement methods, the precise moment and location of the vehicle detection, etc.Due Process & Timeliness
Fines must be communicated to the driver in the correct legal form, respecting deadlines and procedures. If the notice is delayed or the form is deficient, there could be cause for administrative appeal.Special Circumstances
In certain cases—emergency, medical necessity, unclear signage—drivers might have circumstances that affect liability, which could be argued in appeals or defenses. Also, foreign-registered vehicles may face additional issues (jurisdiction, enforcement, cross-border notifications, etc.).Documenting the Case
If you receive a fine, take photos of the site (road signs, weather, visibility, lane markings), of your vehicle’s dashboard GPS (if available), collect any witness statements if applicable. These can be important if you intend to challenge the fine in administrative / judicial proceedings.Statute of Limitations and Legal Deadlines
Be aware of the time limits for challenging fines. Spanish traffic law prescribes specific deadlines both for payment, and for lodging appeals (recurso administrativo). Missing deadlines commonly undermines contesting rights.
What to Expect Going Forward
Wider Deployment During 2026: As the trials have shown significant fine-issuance, DGT is preparing to extend this system nationwide. Expect mobile speed cameras to pop up more commonly on certain highways and roads, especially those previously without fixed speed camera coverage.
Increased Fines in Short Intervals: The trial results suggest that once mobile units are placed, there may be abrupt surges in fines (e.g. “almost 10,000 in three days” in some stretches). Drivers should anticipate this and be especially cautious when driving in areas with reduced signage or unclear speed limits.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
Always monitor speed limits, even in areas you believe “safe” or “less enforced.” New camera mobility means many routes not previously under surveillance may now be.
If travelling through regions with roadworks, temporary lanes, or signage changes, drive defensively — the risk of detection increases.
Request full details if you get fined (photos, calibration, proof of legal signage). If there is any doubt about the legality of the fine’s issuance, consult with legal counsel to evaluate whether to challenge it.
Keep documentation of your vehicle’s speed records (trip logs, GPS if available) especially if you are professional or frequent driver.
Final Thoughts
SGM Abogados understands that this development may strain drivers: more surveillance, more fines, and perhaps less predictability. However, with proper awareness of your rights, careful driving, and, where necessary, readiness to challenge improperly issued fines, you can reduce the risk of unfair penalties.
If you receive a fine from one of these new mobile speed cameras and believe it may be contestable, contact us. We can help assess whether the speed detection met all legal requirements, whether the signage was correct, and whether your procedure for appeal is timely and well-founded.
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