Using service roads or areas to bypass a traffic jam may save only a few seconds, but the manoeuvre can become costly if it violates traffic regulations. In Spain, drivers who use these areas to avoid congestion may be fined when their actions create a safety risk or involve restricted routes.
Rejoining the main road in a dangerous way, forcing other drivers to brake sharply or putting road users at risk can be classified as negligent driving. That offence carries a €200 fine. If the conduct is considered reckless driving, the penalty rises to €500 and six points are deducted from the driver's licence.
Drivers can also receive a €200 fine for using service roads, acceleration or deceleration lanes, or restricted areas improperly or in a prohibited direction.
The same caution applies to emergency corridors. Since 1 October, drivers must create one in the central lane as soon as traffic slows or comes to a standstill. Failing to do so can result in another €200 fine.
The issue has also attracted attention in Germany, where police fined 102 drivers more than €5,000 in five hours after catching them using a shortcut reserved for agricultural vehicles.
Sources: Motorpasión.