What You Need to Know Right Now
Spain’s new S991f traffic sign warns drivers about automatic systems that watch how close you drive to other cars on highways. If you don’t keep enough space, you could face a €200 fine and lose 4 points from your license. The sign started being used on July 1, 2025 and is now being put up on major highways across Spain.
What Is the S991f Sign and Why Should You Care?
The S991f sign is one of the biggest changes to Spanish road signs in years. This new sign has one clear goal: stop rear-end crashes, which cause many accidents on Spain’s highways.
How to Spot the S991f Sign
The new sign is easy to recognize once you know what to look for:
- Blue background like other highway information signs
- Picture showing cars with space between them
- Electronic detection symbol similar to speed camera warnings
- Icons of different vehicles (cars, motorcycles, trucks)
This design helps all drivers understand the message quickly, whether they’re Spanish or from other countries.
Where Will You See These Signs?
The DGT is putting these signs in key spots on highways and major roads, especially in places where:
High-Priority Locations
- Roads with lots of traffic
- Areas where rear-end crashes happen often
- Steep hills and mountain passes
- Places where cars join the highway
- Areas with bad weather problems
You might see the sign just in certain spots or along entire sections of highway, depending on what each area needs.
The Technology: How the Distance Control Works
The systems linked to the S991f sign use smart technology similar to speed cameras, but designed to measure the space between vehicles.
Detection Methods Used
Radar Technology: Uses radio waves that bounce between cars to measure exact distances.
Laser Systems: Use invisible light beams for very precise long-distance measurements.
Smart Cameras: Video systems that analyze images in real-time to spot rule-breakers.
These systems can track moving vehicles and figure out if the gap between them meets legal requirements.
Fines and Penalties: What It Could Cost You
The Financial Hit
Not keeping a safe distance when these systems are watching means:
- Fine: €200
- Points lost: 4 points from your license
- Severity: Classified as a serious traffic violation
When It Gets Worse
In extreme cases, when driving is considered “reckless”, penalties can go up to:
How to Calculate Safe Following Distance
To avoid fines, you need to know how to figure out the right following distance. The DGT suggests several easy methods:
The Square Rule: Most Popular Method
This system works great for normal driving conditions:
- Take your current speed (example: 90 km/h)
- Remove the last digit (leaves: 9)
- Multiply that number by itself (9 × 9 = 81)
- The result is your minimum distance in meters (81 meters)
Real Examples by Speed
| Speed | Calculation | Dry Roads | Wet Roads |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 km/h | 5² | 25 meters | 50 meters |
| 90 km/h | 9² | 81 meters | 162 meters |
| 100 km/h | 10² | 100 meters | 200 meters |
| 120 km/h | 12² | 144 meters | 288 meters |
The Seconds Method: Easier While Driving
For practical use while you’re driving:
Normal conditions: Count 2 seconds from when the car ahead passes a fixed point until you do.
Rain or fog: Increase to 3 seconds minimum.
In tunnels: Keep 4 seconds with cars and 6 seconds with large trucks.
Special Rules and Exceptions
Large Vehicles: Stricter Requirements
Vehicles over 3,500 kg or longer than 10 meters have special rules:
- Minimum distance required: 50 meters behind the vehicle ahead
- In tunnels: 150 meters or 6-second gap
- Higher fines because of greater damage risk
Bad Weather Conditions
When conditions aren’t good, the law requires doubling the distances:
Driver Concerns and Criticism
The S991f sign hasn’t been welcomed by everyone. Spanish drivers have several main worries:
Top Complaints
Unfair Fines: Drivers worry about tickets when other cars suddenly cut in front of them.
Hard to Calculate: Many find it difficult to judge exact distances while driving.
Heavy Traffic: In traffic jams, keeping the required distance can be nearly impossible.
No Road Markings: Missing lane markings that would help calculate distances.
DGT’s Response
Traffic authorities have explained that the systems are designed to avoid false readings and that fines only apply in cases of clear and continued violations.
Additional Information Signs
One smart feature of the S991f sign is the ability to include extra information panels above or below with specific details:
Possible Extra Information
- Length of controlled section
- Required minimum distance
- Types of vehicles affected
- Special control conditions
- System operating hours
This flexibility lets authorities adapt information to each location’s specific needs.
Spain vs. Other European Countries
Spain’s automatic distance control aligns with European trends in road safety:
Leading Countries
Germany: Uses similar systems on highways since 2018
France: Started distance controls in 2020
Netherlands: Leader in automated measurement technology
Spanish System Advantages
- Required advance warning signs (unlike other countries)
- Clear information about locations
- Local technology adapted to Spanish conditions
Practical Tips to Avoid Fines
Before You Drive
Check your car: Make sure brakes and tires work perfectly for effective stopping.
Plan your route: Know which roads have S991f signs installed.
Adjust your mindset: Prepare for more careful driving.
While Driving
Use visual references: Find fixed objects on the road to help calculate distances.
Keep steady speed: Avoid sudden speeding up or braking that affects following distance.
Look ahead: Watch several cars in front, not just the one directly ahead.
With Driver Assistance Technology
If your car has ADAS systems:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Following distance alerts
- Automatic emergency braking
Use these features, but remember that you’re always responsible as the driver.
Road Safety Impact: Numbers and Goals
Current Statistics
According to DGT data, rear-end crashes account for:
- 16% of all highway accidents
- Main cause of minor injuries and property damage
- 30% reduction expected with new controls
Long-Term Goals
The DGT hopes that full implementation of these systems will help:
- Reduce accidents on fast roads
- Improve traffic flow by preventing crash-related delays
- Make drivers more aware of distance importance
- Standardize driving behavior across the country
What’s Coming Next?
Technology Evolution Expected
DGT 3.0 Integration: Connection with smart mobility platform for real-time alerts.
Vehicle-to-Infrastructure Communication: Cars will receive direct warnings about active controls.
Artificial Intelligence: More sophisticated systems that automatically consider weather conditions.
Geographic Expansion
The DGT plans to extend these controls to:
- National roads with high accident rates
- City roads with heavy traffic problems
- International connections to match neighboring countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Must S991f signs always be posted in advance?
Yes, unlike other European countries, Spain requires warning signs for these distance control systems with the S991f sign.
Do these systems work at night and in bad weather?
The control systems are designed to work 24 hours a day in various weather conditions, using laser and infrared technology when needed.
Can I appeal a fine if I think it’s unfair?
Yes, you have the right to appeal any penalty following established procedures. It’s recommended to provide evidence like dashcam footage or witness statements.
Do motorcycle riders follow the same rules?
Absolutely. Motorcycles must respect the same following distances as other vehicles.
What happens if another vehicle cuts in front of me?
The systems are calibrated to detect these situations and won’t issue fines for sudden lane changes by other drivers.
The S991f sign represents an important step toward safer driving on Spanish highways. While it creates some controversy, its goal is clear: save lives by reducing rear-end crashes. The key is adapting to these new technologies and always maintaining a safe distance that lets you react to any unexpected situation.
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