Beware! mistakes that will cost you unexpected traffic fines (and how to avoid them)
Traveling on the roads can be a pleasant experience if proper measures are taken to avoid unexpected traffic fines. Over the years, I have learned that knowing the rules and systems used in each country is essential. Especially if you are going to drive in Portugal, where the highways operate in a particular way. Below, I share some practical tips to make your driving safe and free of unpleasant surprises.
SUMMARY:
| Main ideas | Details |
|---|---|
| 🚗 Traveling safely | Knowing regulations and avoiding unpleasant surprises on road trips. |
| 🛣️ Tolls in Portugal | Understanding payment systems such as EasyToll, Toll Service, and Toll Card. |
| 📵 Avoiding distractions | Not using your mobile while driving and keeping attention on the road. |
| 🔍 Suspicions of fraud | Being wary of messages that request urgent actions or include links. |
Toll systems in Portugal
In Portugal, highways are paid for automatically, although some still have traditional toll booths. It is crucial to understand the different toll systems to avoid fines. In fact, in 2023, there were over 500,000 fines related to incorrect payment on Portuguese highways.
EasyToll
The EasyToll system is designed to simplify payment. This method automatically associates the vehicle’s license plate with a bank account or credit card of the user, being valid for one month. This type of system is very useful for short trips, as it avoids stopping at toll booths.
Toll service
The Toll Service is a card associated with a specific car license plate. It is valid for three days and allows unlimited use for a fixed price of 20 euros. It is ideal for weekend trips or short getaways. The unlimited use during those three days facilitates mobility without additional worries.
Toll card
The Toll Card is a rechargeable prepaid system. It can be loaded with amounts of 5, 10, 20, or 40 euros and has a validity of one year. This option allows for managing the budget for tolls in a more controlled way. It is recommended to always have available balance to avoid penalties.
Via-t
The Via-T device is an electronic tool that facilitates passing through tolls on both Spanish and Portuguese highways without the need to stop. This device also has the advantage of monthly automatic billing.
| System | Validity | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| EasyToll | 1 month | Associated with bank account |
| Toll Service | 3 days | 20 euros |
| Toll Card | 1 year | According to recharge |
| Via-T | Until deactivation | Associated with bank account |
For more information on innovative toll systems and other automotive technologies, I recommend visiting the role of Roborace in the automotive industry.
Common fines and how to avoid them
In my years of experience driving and analyzing regulations, I have seen that many fines can be avoided simply by respecting basic rules. Distractions while driving and speeding are the main causes of penalties. In 2023, the DGT recorded a significant increase in fines for mobile phone use, exceeding one million penalties.
Distractions while driving
- Holding the mobile phone with one hand can lead to a fine of 200 euros and the loss of 6 points.
- Distracting actions such as looking at an accident, kissing, arguing, putting on makeup, or eating can also be fined up to 200 euros.
- Wearing headphones or manually using navigators.
Speeding
Driving at a speed higher than allowed can lead to significant fines :
- Fines ranging from 100 to 600 euros, in addition to the loss of 2 to 6 points.
- Extreme excesses : If the speed exceeds 60 km/h in urban areas or 80 km/h in interurban areas, the driver may face prison from 3 to 6 months, community service, and deprivation of the right to drive for 1 to 4 years.
Precautions at roundabouts
Roundabouts can be critical points in terms of traffic and road safety. It is essential :
- To respect the priority of vehicles inside the roundabout.
- To reduce speed and change lanes properly, signaling the maneuver in advance.
- The main infractions at roundabouts are not respecting priority, committing speeding violations, and not keeping a safe distance.
More details on accidents and how these issues have evolved over the past year can be found in the report The automotive sector closed 2023 with a positive balance of 18.843 million euros.
Avoiding fraudulent messages and electronic fines
In the digital age, protecting personal and banking data is essential. Be wary of unexpected messages that request urgent actions or include links. The DGT notifies fines via postal mail, Electronic Road Address (DEV), and SMS without fraudulent links.
What to do if you receive a suspicious sms ?
If you receive a suspicious message :
- Do not open links or download files.
- Contact the DGT directly through its official channels to verify the information.
- Stay informed about the vital roles of mobility and news from the automotive sector.
It is essential to be well-informed to avoid these frauds. You have available spaces like Faconauto Live to learn about the best practices and stay updated with the news in the sector.
Remember, safe and responsible driving not only avoids fines but also protects lives. Knowing the regulations and being attentive at all times is fundamental to fully enjoy the trip.
