The Special Christmas Operation of the DGT will begin this Friday, December 22 and will be in force until January 7, 2024, between these dates it is estimated about 390,000 long-distance trips in Extremadura, 234,000 in Badajoz and 156,000 in Cáceres. This figure represents an increase of 1.57% compared to 2022. For this reason, the operation will include measures of regulation, management and surveillance by agents of the Traffic Group of the Civil Guard in trouble spots and roads of greater traffic intensity.
The Christmas Special Operation will be divided into three phases: the first will take place from Friday 22 to Monday 25 December, when it is expected that there will be 88,000 trips in Extremadura, 52,500 in Badajoz and 35,500 in Cáceres; the second phase will take place from Friday 29 December 2023, to Monday 1 January 2024, with 72,800 movements in the region, 43,500 in the province of Pacense and 29,300 in the province of Cáceres; and finally, the third phase will be in force from Friday 5 to Sunday 7 January, and it is estimated that there will be 55,700 trips, 33,400 in Badajoz and 22,300 in Cáceres. These figures represent, with respect to the previous year, an increase in displacements of 0.18% in the first phase, 0.34% in the second and 1.96% in the third.
With regard to the roads with the greatest influx, it is possible that there will be detentions by intensity of vehicles on the A-5 motorway, in its passage through Navalmoral de la Mata; as well as on the N-110 in the municipal term of Cabezuela del Valle, by narrowing of the road by bridge, regulated by traffic lights. Another contentious point, in this case due to weather conditions, may be the A-66 road as it passes through Baños Montemayor, where ice/snow is expected for those dates.
Security Tips
It is recommended to plan the trip in advance, not to forget the documentation and perform a complete overhaul of the vehicle. Check levels of brake fluid, oil, and windshield wipers, as well as lighting and battery, brakes, steering, and tires.
Regarding the driver it is advisable to start the trip having rested; to circulate attentively, without using the mobile phone or the GPS while driving; and of course without having consumed alcohol or drugs, with special attention to drugs incompatible with driving.
Another vital measure to increase road safety is to travel at an appropriate speed throughout the journey and not to impose an hour of arrival at the destination. It is also recommended to travel in the right lane by motorway and highway maintaining the safety distance and marking the maneuvers in advance, making use of the belt, helmet, or SRI, if applicable.