As warmer weather arrives, the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) is intensifying motorcycle surveillance on popular roads nationwide from May through October. This measure targets weekends, when motorcycle riding often transforms into a leisure activity. The DGT, in collaboration with the Civil Guard’s Traffic Group, aims to lower accident rates and promote adherence to traffic regulations.

Key concerns identified include illegal overtaking, failure to wear helmets, speeding, and the consumption of alcohol and drugs. These behaviours are classified as major risks and contribute significantly to motorcyclist violations. As a result, officials have directed the Civil Guard to monitor these dangerous practices closely.

Spain stands as the second country in the European Union with the highest number of motorcyclists, boasting nearly six million registered motorcycles. This demographic comprises roughly fifteen per cent of all vehicles, but alarmingly, it also accounts for twenty-seven per cent of road traffic fatalities. Since the beginning of the year, ninety-six motorcyclists have lost their lives on interurban roads, with a typical profile being a male aged between twenty-five and sixty-four, often with over ten years of driving experience.

Conventional roads have proven to be particularly treacherous, with eight out of every ten motorcyclists who die in accidents losing their lives on these routes. Among the most common scenarios, more than half of fatal accidents occur due to motorcyclists leaving the road without any other vehicles involved. However, weekends tend to see an uptick in collision incidents, underscoring the urgent need for heightened awareness and compliance with traffic regulations.