Holding a mobile phone while driving remains the most common offence contributing to distractions on the road, according to the latest results from a special traffic enforcement campaign by the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT). Between 5 and 11 October 2026, the Traffic Group of the Guardia Civil issued a total of 9,245 citations for driving distractions, with 3,816 (42.3%) of these for improper use of mobile phones, an infraction that incurs a penalty of six points on the driving licence.
During the week-long campaign, 8,584 checks were conducted, covering 422,927 vehicles, of which 9,126 were cited for various distraction-related offences. Following mobile phone misuse, the most frequently penalised behaviours included driving with headphones connected to audio devices, which resulted in 441 violations, and not wearing a seatbelt while driving, with 421 citations issued.
Other notable offences included 257 citations for reading while driving, 136 for searching for objects while the vehicle was in motion, 112 for being distracted by passengers, 83 for eating while driving, and 29 for smoking. Additionally, 49 violations were recorded for improper use of navigation systems, and 70 for using other communication devices. A total of 1,839 citations were issued for various other types of distractions while driving.
In terms of substance use, the preventive checks during the campaign also identified drivers under the influence. Specifically, 1,061 drivers were cited for exceeding legal alcohol limits while also engaging in distractions, and 931 tested positive for drugs.
