The latest major evolution in motorcycle traffic legislation comes from Spain, or at least it seems that it will be very soon. The measure will allow motorcyclists to ride on the shoulders in certain situations and as long as certain rules are followed.
The potential change in legislation comes after motorcycle sales in Spain increased by 12.4% in 2023, which was the largest increase recorded in the last 15 years. And, after an expected slowdown due to economic concerns, sales continued to rise in 2024, year after year.
The Spanish roads are filled with motorcycles and, in recent years, motorcyclists have been asking for one thing: to use the roadway.
If, for example, you are driving in a high traffic urban area, many drivers expect motorcyclists to separate from the roadway and free up traffic flow. But now that Spain is experiencing a boom in two-wheelers, dividing the roadway may not be enough to keep things running smoothly, so motorcyclists want to use the roadway.
If approved, the update should be formalized by 2025 and will allow motorcyclists to ride in the emergency lane when traffic is slow or stopped. Motorcyclists cannot exceed 30 km/h and must give way to cyclists, agricultural vehicles, and emergency vehicles. This could mean the end of lane separation in Spain, at least in some situations.
At first glance, it seems like a great plan, but I imagine some motorcyclists won’t take advantage of the new law, at least initially.
