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Parking in a space reserved for people with disabilities without authorisation might soon become a lot more expensive in Spain. The government wants to send a clear message to inconsiderate drivers who continue to take up these spots – even when they don’t need them. Government moves to toughen fines Spain’s Congress of Deputies will debate a new initiative from the Socialist Party (PSOE) that aims to raise the fine from €200 to €500 for anyone parking illegally in a disabled space. At present, this offence is considered “serious” under Spain’s traffic law and punished with a €200 fine (or €100 if paid early). The PSOE wants it reclassified as ‘very serious’, which would raise the fine to €500 – or €250 for early payment. Socialist lawmakers argue that the current penalties simply aren’t enough to deter repeat offenders. “Many people with reduced mobility still face huge challenges finding a place to park, not only because of the lack of adapted spaces but also because others misuse them,” the group explained. Backed by disability rights groups The proposal is backed by several organisations and citizens’ groups, including the Spanish Committee of Representatives of People with Disabilities (CERMI). The association has long called for tougher penalties to protect the rights and mobility of people with disabilities. According to CERMI, the change would help discourage disrespectful behaviour and raise awareness about accessibility rights. “This isn’t just about a fine,” they’ve argued in past statements, “it’s about respect and dignity.” PSOE representatives also stressed that the measure responds to repeated requests from social organisations that want to see real consequences for selfish parking habits. “It’s time for the penalties to reflect the seriousness of the behaviour,” they said. A renewed push after months of silence This isn’t the first time the Socialists have brought up the idea. The proposal actually revives an amendment first introduced in May 2024 as part of a wider traffic reform bill. That earlier draft also covered lower drink-driving limits and a ban on alerting other drivers about police checkpoints – but it stalled after more than 30 amendments blocked its progress. Now, PSOE lawmakers are bringing the debate back to life, hoping to finally push the measure through Parliament. If approved, the new law would officially raise fines to €500 and reclassify parking in disabled spaces as a “very serious offence”. The move could mark a turning point for accessibility enforcement in Spain – a step that disability advocates say is long overdue. Stay tuned with Euro Weekly News for the latest news from Spain
