All preparations are in place in Spain for the Special Traffic Operation this Easter, which is expected to generate more than seventeen million long‑distance road journeys within the vast country.
The operation begins on 27 March afternoon and will accompany one of the busiest travel peaks of the year. The first phase extends to Sunday night and is expected to involve more than four million long‑distance movements.
Risks
Last Easter, twenty‑seven people lost their lives in twenty‑six traffic crashes, including eight motorcyclists, show data by the Spanish General Traffic Directorate (DGT). Authorities hope that this tragic figure will not be repeated and emphasize the need for responsible driving and strict compliance with traffic regulations. Motorcyclists in particular are reminded to exercise caution, as the pleasant spring weather will encourage many of them to take to the roads.
Beacon
This year marks the first major holiday exodus in which the V‑sixteen warning beacon is mandatory. This device must be used whenever a vehicle must be stopped on the road due to an incident. Beyond providing a visible signal, the beacon also transmits a virtual alert to navigation systems, mobile phones and roadside message boards, allowing other drivers to prepare in advance for any hazard on the road. The DGT platform receives thousands of such alerts daily.
Emergency
Another major improvement concerns the national travel information line, zero eleven. The service has been upgraded with artificial intelligence, enabling automatic transcription of calls, recognition of essential details and evaluation of callers’ emotional state. These enhancements aim to optimize the support provided to citizens. The system now also understands English, Catalan, Galician and Basque. Additional upgrades include expanded geographical recognition and broader classification of incidents such as fires and flooding.
Resources
To ensure safety and fluidity, Spain’s traffic authorities will deploy maximum human and technical resources. Officers from the Traffic Unit of the Civil Guard, staff from the eight national traffic control centers and emergency teams will be fully mobilized. The operation will make use of fixed and mobile speed controls, cameras monitoring mobile phone use and seatbelt compliance, and aerial surveillance operating throughout the period.
Management
Traffic flow management will include reversible and additional lanes marked with cones and signage in the most congested corridors. Alternative routes will be offered for drivers affected by lane reductions. Road works will be suspended, sports and public events requiring use of the roadway will be limited, and restrictions will apply to certain freight vehicles, especially those transporting specific types of cargo.
The DGT urged all travelers to plan their routes in advance, choose the safest roads and monitor traffic conditions through official information channels, including radio and television updates or the national information line. Drivers are reminded to avoid all mobile phone use while driving, never operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and respect all speed limits and traffic regulations. The priority is clear: travel safely, enjoy the holiday and return home without incident.