2018: The year we will be monitored by drones (from the DGT)

2017 was not a good year for road safety. The rise in the number of accidents compared with 2016, together with the worst figure recorded in this five-year period, will result in tougher control and prevention measures, as well as the introduction of a series of legal reforms to ensure a reduction in the number of road deaths this year. Below we list the main changes announced by the Director General of Traffic, Gregorio Serrano, which will come into force during 2018.

Use of drones: The purchase of drones is planned for use in speed control. In addition, just as helicopters do today, they will be able to issue fines.

New speed cameras on conventional roads: The DGT plans to install more than 60 mobile average-speed cameras. Unlike conventional ones, these cameras monitor speed over a given distance and not at a single point. They will be placed mainly on secondary roads.

Tougher measures against repeat offenders: Drivers who are 'caught' with alcohol or drug levels above those permitted twice within 2 years will have their driving licence withdrawn. We do not yet know whether temporarily or permanently.

New driving test:  Among the objectives the DGT has set for 2018 is for drivers to hit the road better prepared. To this end it proposes a new driving test in which it is not just a matter of answering 'a', 'b' or 'c', but which also uses new technologies, so that learners can face 'real situations'. However, we will have to wait until later to know exactly what these changes will consist of.