THE traffic at roundabouts is one of the beasts of burden of the road safety. In Spain, the DGT has published several campaigns on this subject. In Portugal, however, the rule is clear and punishable.
On Portuguese soil, use the Right Lane of a unintentional roundabout Leaving immediately is grounds for punishment. In fact, the Artigo 14-A of the Traffic Laws establishes it as a minor to serious offense, depending on the risk generated.
Mandatory lane change before leaving
| Country | Exit | Authorized route | Very good for error | Fountain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spain | 1st and 2nd | Right of preference | Ambiguous | DGT |
| Spain | 3rd or change of direction | Interior + right | Ambiguous | DGT |
| Portugal | 1st | Mandatory right | €60 to €300 | Traffic Laws |
| Portugal | 2nd, 3rd or more | Interior to previous exit | €60 to €300 | GNR |
Why so much difference?
- In Spain, the logic and the “sure control”without strict channel coding.
- Portugal bets on a clear standard to avoid level crossings and braking on the outside lane.
The instructor explains it Fernando Rodriguez in Cope: “The Right Lane “It’s about getting out, not walking around inside the roundabout.” The same defends the art. 14-A Portuguese since 2013.
visual example
Here infographic We compare the circulation in roundabouts for the first three outings. You will see that changing lanes Portugal is not optional:
Watch out for the flashing light!
THE Civil Guard and the GNR coincide: the signaling with flashing is mandatory. Failure to activate the right turn signal before leaving is considered minor offense in both countries.
Practical conclusion
- If you are driving in Portugal: exit only by the outside routeand only when it’s your turn.
- If you are crossing Spain: if in doubt, as soon as you canbut without cutting the trajectories.
Did you know? Now you are ready to avoid an Iberian fine.
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