The Apps You Need To Download On Your Mobile Phone To Avoid DGT Speed Cameras In Spain
Expat Tips
Published: 08 November 2023 14:24 CET
In today's fast-paced world of road travel, staying informed about traffic regulations and speed control measures is of paramount importance. This is especially true in Spain, where the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) maintains a vast network of over 2,000 radar devices spread across the country, encompassing both mobile and fixed units, as well as section control devices. These include over 1,300 mobile radar units, approximately 800 fixed radar installations, and 92 section control devices.
To further complicate matters, various Autonomous Communities manage their own radar devices independently of the DGT's jurisdiction, and municipal authorities maintain radar equipment on urban roads.
To help road users navigate these surveillance systems, numerous smartphone applications have emerged that provide real-time information about radar locations, offering valuable assistance to drivers.
In Spain, there are several applications designed to alert users to the presence of DGT radar devices. Some of the most prominent ones include Coyote, which not only highlights DGT devices but also identifies ‘photo-red’ traffic lights.
Radar Bot is another notable option, although it comes at a cost. Fixed and Mobile Radars, on the other hand, is a free alternative, and Social Drive serves as a Twitter account that provides radar warnings and traffic updates. Furthermore, Waze, a popular navigation app, offers radar notifications and information on roadworks and traffic congestion. Not to be overlooked is the ever popular Google Maps, which is widely used and excels at warning users about fixed speed control devices.
For those who prefer Google Maps, activating the radar detector feature is straightforward. By accessing the profile icon and navigating to account settings, users can open the dropdown menu, select settings, enter navigation preferences, and enable security alerts and radar notifications. Ensuring that this function is visible will result in alerts when approaching a speed enforcement camera on the road.
It's essential to be aware of the legal aspects related to reporting radar locations in Spain. When it comes to fixed radar installations, applications like Google Maps allow users to share their exact locations without incurring penalties. However, when it comes to mobile radar units, it is a punishable offence to provide the precise kilometre point where a speed control device is located. While the Civil Guard may inform you of the general section in which you are travelling, notifying others of the exact location can lead to fines ranging from 200 euros. This difference highlights how vital it is to use radar detection apps responsibly and within the law.
