Driving in spain the laws,car crime in spain, stolen cars spain, car thefts spain, crims figures, spain
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Driving in Spain - Car crime in Spain

International trafficking
More than 40% of car thefts in Europe occur on the Costa del Sol according to a recent meeting of the National Police in Fuengirola. Spain is known as the gateway for trafficking of stolen cars into Africa and is considered one of the most important car showrooms in the world.

   
It is planned that in a couple of years, all cars will be computerised and there will be a databank of information enabling all stolen cars to be located, worldwide and then returned to its rightful owner. The scheme will not however include Morocco, for they have a law that states that if a vehicle is brought into the country with illegal paperwork then it cannot be granted an exit visa. The only way that this could be rectified would be by an amendment to the Moroccan custom laws, which may never happen.

 

In Spain it is often international crime rings that organise the vehicle trafficking as the profit to be made is so huge. The most sought-after models include 4 wheel drives such as Mitsubishi, Mercedes, Range Rover and Jeeps which are most useful in countries where there is a lot of snow or desert. The route for stolen vehicles is usually via the ports of Almeria, Algeciras or Cadiz.

 

With the abolition of European borders, the problem is getting out of hand.

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Minor crime
Crime in Spain is generally quite low, however there is an increase in the large cities of thefts from vehicles. Tourists are prime targets as they will continue to leave valuables on view in their cars. Hire cars are also so easy to spot.

 

When parking your car, remember;

  • Do not leave any valuables in view - better still take them with you

  • At night park your car in a brightly lit area - better still, in a secure car park (and make a note of where you have parked it)

  • Make a note of your registration number and keep it with you

There are increasing numbers of reports about crimes committed at airports, in particular involving hired cars.

 

On arriving at an airport, most people are disorientated and are easy targets.
Take note of these simple guidelines and you will reduce the risk of crime;

  • Keep all your luggage with you at all times - never leave it unattended

  • Keep your passports, money and tickets out of view at all times

  • Avoid confrontation with strangers asking for directions or help - point them to the information desk

  • If you collect a hire car, place your luggage in the boot and lock it

  • Check the tyres for damage before you drive away - look for puncture damage

  • As you leave the airport, if anyone flags you down, do not stop

  • Ask the hire company for the nearest garage. On arrival at the garage, lock your car when you get out - take the keys with you
    These are guidelines only, to minimise the risks. Generally you will not have problems and Spain is a safe place to be

 

It is very common in Spain for a car to be in collision with parked vehicles and not stop. Most cars have damage to some degree and it is quite acceptable.

 

 

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