A British expatriate residing in the popular coastal resort of Benidorm has issued an essential safety warning specifically aimed at UK holidaymakers visiting Spain. The expat, known as Frank on social media, has observed numerous instances where British visitors are putting themselves at serious risk by incorrectly crossing roads, prompting him to share vital guidance to prevent accidents.
The Critical Mistake: Looking the Wrong Way
Frank, who documents his experiences as @frankthestagman on TikTok, expressed significant concern about a common and dangerous error he witnesses regularly. He emphasised that many people arriving from the United Kingdom instinctively look to their right when preparing to cross, a habit ingrained from British road rules. However, in Spain, where traffic drives on the right, vehicles approach from the left.
"A lot of people look the wrong way, and that can cause problems," Frank stated. "Your first look should be to your left, not your right, because that's where traffic will be coming from." He further explained that this becomes particularly crucial when crossing back the other way, as the direction you need to check reverses accordingly.
Understanding Spanish Pedestrian Crossings and Driver Behaviour
While pedestrian crossings in Spain appear similar to UK zebra crossings with their distinctive white stripes, Frank highlighted important differences in practical usage and driver attitudes. In the UK, there is a strong cultural and legal expectation for drivers to stop for pedestrians waiting at crossings. Spanish law also mandates that drivers yield to pedestrians at marked crossings, but Frank noted that adherence can be less predictable.
"You might notice that Spanish pedestrians often assertively step onto the crossing to signal their intention to cross, rather than waiting for cars to stop first," he observed. This proactive approach contrasts with the more cautious, wait-until-stopped behaviour common among British pedestrians. Frank advised UK tourists to make clear eye contact with approaching drivers and to demonstrate their intent to cross more definitively, rather than assuming vehicles will automatically halt.
Additional Safety Considerations and Cultural Observations
Frank provided further context about the road environment in Benidorm and broader Spain. He warned that traffic can sometimes accelerate unexpectedly when pedestrians are crossing, a situation he described as "a bit unfair" but a reality requiring heightened vigilance. His overarching advice is to remain extremely careful and focused solely on crossing safely to reach your destination, avoiding distractions or confrontations.
"If you're not sure, look both ways multiple times," Frank recommended. "Then nothing's going to happen when you're crossing the road." He also cautioned against engaging in arguments with drivers, even if honked at, urging people to simply continue crossing carefully.
Notable Cultural Differences in Road Etiquette
The expat also pointed out an interesting cultural divergence regarding pedestrian-driver interactions. In the UK, it is customary for pedestrians to acknowledge drivers who stop for them with a wave, nod, or verbal thanks. Frank noted that this overt politeness is less common in Spain.
"You can always spot a Brit or someone from Ireland because they'll give a thumbs up and a 'cheers' when you've been let across the road," he remarked. Spanish pedestrians, he explained, often cross without such explicit acknowledgment, which UK drivers should not interpret as rudeness but rather as a different social norm.
In online discussions following Frank's advice, some commenters praised specific Spanish infrastructure, with one noting: "I actually love the Spanish pedestrian crossings cos they actually have the countdown to when the lights are changing." This feature can provide additional clarity for pedestrians navigating busy intersections.
Essential Checklist for UK Tourists in Spain
- Look Left First: Consciously override your instinct to look right. Pause and check left initially, as traffic approaches from that direction.
- Check Both Ways Thoroughly: After looking left, also check right and left again before and during crossing.
- Be Assertive at Crossings: Clearly indicate your intention to cross by stepping towards the crossing, but only when it is safe to do so.
- Establish Eye Contact: Ensure drivers have seen you before proceeding.
- Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and do not engage in disputes with motorists. Your primary goal is safe passage.
- Understand Local Norms: Recognise that driver and pedestrian behaviour may differ from UK expectations.
Frank's advice serves as a timely reminder for the thousands of British tourists who visit Benidorm and other Spanish destinations annually. By adapting crossing habits and remaining vigilant, holidaymakers can significantly enhance their safety while enjoying their time abroad. The key takeaway is simple but potentially life-saving: in Spain, look left first, look both ways, and always prioritise caution over assumption when navigating the roads.
