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Spain Installs First Roundabout Speed Camera: A Bold Step Toward Safer Urban Roads

Introduction: A Revolutionary Move in Traffic Monitoring

In a notable development for road safety and urban traffic management, Spain’s Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) has introduced a unique speed enforcement system—a speed camera placed inside a roundabout. Situated in Salamanca, this installation marks the country’s first use of an average-speed radar within such a setting and is already drawing significant attention.

Operational since March 2025, this speed camera keeps a watchful eye over a 461-meter stretch of the SA-20 highway, particularly where it converges with the A-50 near Salamanca’s Montalvo industrial area. Despite its recent launch, it has rapidly become one of the three most active speed enforcement tools in the province.

The camera issues €100 fines (without point deductions on a driver’s license) for vehicles that complete the stretch in under 33.2 seconds, indicating speeds exceeding the 50 km/h limit.

But what makes this installation in a roundabout so significant? And could this approach redefine urban traffic safety strategies across Europe?

How Does the Roundabout Radar Work?

Unlike traditional fixed-speed cameras that capture a vehicle's speed at a single moment, this system measures average speed across a distance. Here’s how it functions:

• Monitored section: 461 meters (from kilometer marker 91.975 to 92.436).

• Legal speed limit: 50 km/h.

• Time allowance: 33.2 seconds to complete the stretch.

• Penalty: €100 fine (no points deducted from driver’s license).

This method doesn’t rely on surprise enforcement. Instead, it encourages drivers to maintain a consistent, lawful speed through the monitored zone, instead of simply braking before reaching a fixed radar.

Why Choose a Roundabout?

Roundabouts are typically designed to calm traffic and reduce speeds naturally. However, the situation in this Salamanca location required special intervention:

• Daily vehicle count exceeds 20,000, with many drivers traveling at speeds close to 70 km/h, well above the legal limit.

• A high volume of commercial and freight traffic from the nearby industrial estate contributes to the risk.

• There have been numerous near misses and safety concerns due to vehicles speeding through the roundabout.

It was local authorities in Salamanca, not the central traffic agency in Madrid, who requested the installation after observing repeated violations and elevated accident potential.

A European First?

According to Alfonso García, also known as ‘Motorman’ on COPE radio, this setup might be Europe’s first speed camera inside a roundabout. While countries like Germany and the UK have widely adopted average-speed cameras for motorways and tunnels, none have been publicly confirmed for use within roundabouts—until now.

If Salamanca's model proves effective, it could trigger a wave of similar implementations in other Spanish cities and possibly influence traffic strategies across Europe.

Public Reactions: Divided Opinions

The introduction of this new system hasn’t gone unnoticed by the public. Reactions have been mixed, reflecting both support and criticism.

Supporters argue that:

• It enhances safety in a high-risk traffic zone.

• Promotes smoother and more predictable traffic flow.

• Avoids harsh penalties by not deducting license points.

Critics believe:

• It’s more of a revenue-generating tool than a safety initiative.

• Drivers are confused about how long they should take to pass through.

• The absence of clear warning signage contributes to unfair penalties.

Local resident and driver Carlos Moreno, known as ‘El Pulpo’, voiced a common concern on COPE:

“If it truly improves safety, great. But why not make the rules clearer with better signage?”

A Snapshot of Spain’s Growing Radar Network

The Salamanca installation is part of a broader traffic enforcement expansion in Spain. In 2025 alone, the country plans to introduce 122 new speed cameras, including:

• 9 fixed-location radars.

• 8 average-speed systems, like the one in Salamanca.

As per the Coyote Observatory, Spain now operates 3,395 active speed radars, with placement distributed as follows:

• 47% in urban areas

• 34% on secondary roads

• 18% on highways

Regions with the highest number of speed cameras:

1. Catalonia – 902 radars

2. Andalusia – 450 radars

3. Castilla y León – 356 radars

This indicates a strong emphasis on urban and regional road safety, rather than just highway enforcement.

Looking Ahead: What Could Change Next?

The Salamanca roundabout camera is just the beginning of what may become a much larger shift in traffic control across Spain—and possibly beyond.

Wider implementation: Other cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia could replicate the model if results prove favorable.

Stricter penalties: Although current fines do not include point deductions, the DGT may consider tougher enforcement if high-speed violations persist.

Smarter systems: There’s growing interest in integrating AI-driven traffic technologies. Future systems may detect aggressive or erratic driving behavior, not just speeding.

 

Expert Insight: Smarter Enforcement Is Key

Traffic systems analyst María López, from the University of Barcelona, supports the innovation:

“Average-speed monitoring within roundabouts is a logical solution in high-volume zones. But technology alone isn’t enough—we need public awareness campaigns so drivers understand how these systems work. Fear shouldn’t drive compliance; knowledge should.”

Her statement underscores the need for a balanced approach—combining enforcement with education to achieve real safety improvements.

Conclusion: A Glimpse Into the Future of Urban Traffic

Spain’s first roundabout speed camera isn’t just about fining speeders. It represents a test bed for smarter, more adaptive urban traffic management. With urban traffic continuing to rise, systems that encourage responsible driving habits without being overly punitive may pave the way for future city planning.

As cities around the world grapple with increasing congestion and road safety issues, this innovative approach from Salamanca may inspire a new era of intelligent traffic regulation.

Key Takeaways

• Spain's first roundabout speed camera launched in Salamanca in March 2025.

•  Fines issued to drivers who cover 461 meters in under 33.2 seconds (over 50 km/h).

•  Over 20,000 vehicles use this roundabout daily, many exceeding speed limits.

•  Part of a nationwide expansion—122 new radars added in 2025.

• Possible future steps: AI enforcement, expanded coverage, and stricter penalties.

Final Word:
As cities become smarter, traffic enforcement must follow suit. The focus should shift from punishment to prevention, and Salamanca’s speed camera might be the blueprint for what’s to come.