How to Appeal a Breathalyzer Fine in Mataró: Downloadable Template (Word/PDF)
Receiving a breathalyzer fine (multa de alcoholemia) in Mataró can be a stressful experience, but Spanish traffic law provides you with the right to appeal if there is a "defecto de forma." A defecto de forma (procedural defect) refers to a technical error in the administrative process—such as missing information, incorrect dates, illegible signatures, or failure to follow the mandatory calibration protocols for the breathalyzer device—that renders the sanction invalid. This template helps you challenge the fine on those specific legal grounds.
Instructions on how and where to submit your appeal in Mataró
Once you have filled out the template, you have several ways to submit your appeal to the DGT (Dirección General de Tráfico) or the local Mataró authorities:
- In-person: You can submit the document at the "Oficina de Atención al Ciudadano" or the nearest DGT provincial headquarters (Jefatura Provincial de Tráfico). Remember to bring a copy for them to stamp as your proof of receipt.
- Online: If you have a digital certificate or Cl@ve PIN, you can submit the appeal electronically via the official DGT website (Sede Electrónica).
- By Mail: You may send the document via "Correo Administrativo" at your local post office (Correos), ensuring the envelope is open so the clerk can stamp the date on the document.
AL JEFE DE TRÁFICO DE LA JEFATURA PROVINCIAL DE TRÁFICO DE BARCELONA
D./Dña. [Your Full Name], con DNI/NIE número [Your ID Number], y domicilio a efectos de notificaciones en [Your Address in Mataró], ante esta Jefatura comparezco y, como mejor proceda en Derecho, EXPONGO:
Que con fecha [Date of notification], he sido notificado de la denuncia número [File/Fine Number] por una supuesta infracción de alcoholemia. Por medio del presente escrito, formulo ALEGACIONES en tiempo y forma, basándome en la existencia de un DEFECTO DE FORMA en el boletín de denuncia/expediente sancionador.
MOTIVOS:
El acto administrativo adolece de un vicio de nulidad al no cumplir con los requisitos formales exigidos por la Ley sobre Tráfico, Circulación de Vehículos a Motor y Seguridad Vial. Específicamente, se observa: [Describe the specific error, e.g., "la ausencia del número de serie del etilómetro" or "la falta de firma del agente denunciante"], lo cual genera indefensión al interesado.
Por lo expuesto,
SOLICITO: Que se tenga por presentado este escrito, se admitan las alegaciones formuladas y, tras los trámites oportunos, se proceda al ARCHIVO Y SOBRESEIMIENTO del expediente sancionador.
En Mataró, a [Date] de [Month] de 202X.
Fdo: [Your Signature]
Additional documentation required
To ensure your appeal is processed correctly, you should attach the following items:
- A copy of your National ID (DNI) or NIE.
- A copy of the notification letter (the fine received by mail).
- Any evidence supporting your claim of a procedural defect (e.g., photos of the scene, witness statements, or documents showing the device was not properly calibrated).
- Power of attorney if you are hiring a legal representative to act on your behalf.
Expert Tip: Always keep the original stamped copy of your appeal. If the administration does not respond within the legal timeframe (usually three months for fines), the principle of "silencio administrativo" may apply, but it is always safer to follow up if you do not receive a resolution. If you believe the error is complex, consulting with a specialized traffic lawyer in Mataró is highly recommended to avoid paying the fine unnecessarily.