A Shocking Incident on the TF-1 Motorway
The Guardia Civil has launched a formal investigation after a tourist was filmed driving a rental vehicle at an astonishing 230 kilometres per hour (almost 150 mph) on the TF-1 motorway in the south of Tenerife. The legal limit is 120 km/h, meaning the driver was travelling at nearly double the maximum speed permitted.
The reckless behaviour was captured on a passenger’s mobile phone. In the video, the car’s speedometer climbs rapidly while voices inside the vehicle can be heard laughing and cheering at the dangerous stunt. The footage quickly circulated on social media before making its way into the hands of law enforcement. Authorities are now working to identify both the driver and the rent a car Tenerife company that supplied the vehicle.
Complications When Sanctioning Foreign Drivers
Police unions in Tenerife have raised concerns about the difficulty of prosecuting foreign offenders. When a driver is not stopped on the spot, the fine is initially directed to the rent a car Tenerife agency, which is then obliged to pass on the driver’s personal information.
For European tourists, sanctions are usually enforceable through shared databases. However, when offenders come from outside the EU, the situation becomes complex. In many cases, fines are left unpaid, and offenders manage to escape accountability.
Spanish drivers, in contrast, face not only hefty fines but also penalty points on their licences, which can eventually lead to suspension. Tourists often avoid these consequences. Some travellers even cancel the credit card associated with the rental contract to avoid charges—highlighting a major loophole in the system.
A Serious Criminal Offence Under Spanish Law
Spanish legislation sets the maximum motorway speed at 120 km/h. Exceeding this limit by more than 60 km/h is considered a criminal offence. Driving at 230 km/h represents a violation of Article 379.1 of the Spanish Penal Code, classifying it as an offence against road safety.
Penalties can include:
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Three to six months in prison
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Fines equivalent to six to twelve months of income
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Community service of 31 to 90 days
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Driving bans lasting from one to four years
Although this offence is not technically “reckless driving”—which requires deliberate manoeuvres that directly endanger others—it remains a grave violation of the law. If convicted, the tourist could face a prison sentence of up to two years. However, as is often the case for first-time offenders without prior records, jail time might be substituted with fines or community service.
Past Incidents in Tenerife and Spain
Unfortunately, this is not the first time such a case has surfaced on the island. Tenerife has long been a destination where high-speed violations by tourists in rent a car Tenerife vehicles draw attention.
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2019: A German tourist was fined after being clocked at over 200 km/h on the TF-5 near La Laguna. The driver was stopped immediately, making prosecution straightforward.
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2021: A British holidaymaker in a rental sports car was caught by radar travelling at 215 km/h on the TF-1. The case highlighted once again how non-resident offenders can exploit legal gaps.
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2022: Spanish authorities reported a spike in reckless driving videos on social media, many featuring rental cars in the Canary Islands, prompting calls for stricter rental contract clauses and higher insurance deposits.
These incidents, though isolated, contribute to Tenerife’s growing concern about road safety and the misuse of rental cars by thrill-seeking visitors.
A Debate on Tourism and Road Safety
The case reignites debate on how Tenerife balances its booming tourism industry with road safety enforcement. The island welcomes millions of visitors each year, many of whom choose the freedom of rent a car Tenerife to explore its volcanic landscapes, coastal resorts, and mountain villages. While the vast majority of drivers respect the rules, a minority risk tarnishing the island’s reputation with reckless behaviour.
Local officials and traffic authorities are now discussing measures such as:
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Closer collaboration between rental agencies and police.
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Mandatory clauses in contracts emphasising criminal penalties.
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Real-time data sharing between speed radars and rental databases.
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Potential confiscation of rental deposits in cases of proven violations.
Such steps could not only deter reckless driving but also reassure residents and law-abiding tourists that safety is being prioritised.
Why This Matters for Rent a Car Tenerife
The incident is more than just a viral video; it highlights the responsibility of both visitors and rental companies in ensuring safe travel. Tenerife’s road network connects beaches, national parks, and mountain routes—making driving one of the best ways to enjoy the island. However, safety cannot be compromised.
For travellers planning a rent a car Tenerife experience, this case serves as a strong reminder: respect local laws, follow speed limits, and remember that driving responsibly ensures not only your own safety but also the well-being of others sharing the road.
Conclusion
As the Guardia Civil investigation continues, Tenerife once again finds itself at the centre of a debate over tourism, road safety, and the responsibilities tied to rent a car Tenerife services. Whether the driver faces fines, a ban, or even prison time, one thing is clear: reckless driving has no place on the island’s roads.
By learning from past cases and implementing stricter measures, Tenerife can continue to offer the freedom of car rental while safeguarding both residents and visitors.