Drunk driver attempts escape, faces jail time and license suspension in spain
Intensified roadside checks target drunk and drugged drivers
Spain's Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) and the Guardia Civil de Tráfico are intensifying their efforts to combat drink and drug-driving. These heightened controls aim to deter reckless behavior and intercept individuals who operate vehicles under the influence. A recent incident in Cariño, A Coruña (Galicia), highlights the seriousness of the issue and the consequences faced by offenders.
The cariño incident: a case of refusal and flight
The incident occurred on September 30, 2023. A motorcyclist encountered a Guardia Civil road check and, exhibiting clear signs of intoxication—including a strong alcohol odor, constricted pupils, and erratic behavior—refused to submit to a breathalyzer test. He then attempted to flee, shouting threats to the officers. The officers managed to intercept and detain him before he could escape.
Legal repercussions: prison sentence and license revocation
Following a legal challenge by the defense, a court in Ortigueira has sentenced the driver to six months of imprisonment and a one-year and one-day suspension of his driving license. The sentence stems from his refusal to undergo the legally mandated breathalyzer test. He also received a further 65 days of community service and a three-year driving ban for a separate offense against road safety. The driver already had prior convictions for similar offenses.
Understanding alcohol limits in spain
Driving under the influence in Spain is a serious offense with significant consequences. The DGT establishes maximum alcohol limits based on driver type. For general drivers, the limit is 0.5 grams per liter of blood or 0.25 milligrams per liter in exhaled air. Professional and novice drivers face a stricter limit of 0.3 grams per liter of blood or 0.15 milligrams per liter in exhaled air. Exceeding these limits carries severe penalties.
Penalties for exceeding alcohol limits
Here’s a breakdown of the fines and penalties associated with exceeding the legal alcohol limit:
- 0.25 mg/l – 0.50 mg/l (Exhaled Air): €500 fine and deduction of 4 points from your license.
- Above 0.50 mg/l (Exhaled Air): €1,000 fine and deduction of 6 points from your license.
- Above 0.60 mg/l (Exhaled Air) / 1.2 g/l (Blood): Considered a criminal offense, potentially leading to imprisonment, community service, additional fines, and license revocation.
The severity of refusing a breathalyzer test
Refusing to submit to a breathalyzer test is a serious offense in itself. It automatically aggravates the potential penalties and can lead to criminal charges. Spanish law views this refusal as a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice and avoid accountability for potential impaired driving. The recent case in Cariño serves as a stark reminder of these consequences.
| Driver Type | Blood Alcohol Limit (g/l) | Breath Alcohol Limit (mg/l) |
|---|---|---|
| General Drivers | 0.5 | 0.25 |
| Professional/Novice Drivers | 0.3 | 0.15 |
As an Automotive enthusiast and the voice behind CarHireHub, I believe it's crucial to highlight these safety measures. Let’s all commit to responsible driving and ensure our roads remain safe for everyone. Remember, driving under the influence is never worth the risk.