Driving implies more than dominating driving. Apparently simple details, such as the way the objects disposed inside the automobile, can make a difference between a quiet trip and a misdemeanor that weighs in the pocket. Many drivers are unaware that habits that seem harmless can lead to fines and not only.
According to the National Road Safety Authority (ANSR), the most frequent situations are the placement of clothes, towels or other objects loose on the rear seat or the shelf next to the rear window. If these items obstruct visibility by the inner rearview mirror, they may be a fine, according to the Drivalia portal.
When a simple towel can come out face
The road code stipulates that the driver’s field of view should allow a clear observation of the road within a minimum radius of 50 meters. Any obstruction to this visibility, even caused by objects inside the car, can configure an offense.
Mults for these situations range from 60 to 300 euros, depending on the degree of obstruction and the evaluation of the authority on site. If the agent understands that safety has been compromised, it can also order the immobilization of the vehicle until the situation is corrected.
The Invicta.pt website adds that in some cases this infraction may be considered negligence in driving. Legal liability is aggravated if an accident occurs and proves that limited visibility was a contributory factor.
It’s not just a matter of fines
In addition to monetary penalty, transporting loose objects near the rear window poses an added risk to the occupants of the vehicle. In case of sudden braking, these objects can become projectiles, increasing the possibility of injuries.
Road safety experts recommend that everything that is not being used is stored in the root holder. Although it seems practical to leave a towel on the back seat or a handmade at hand, the consequences can be more serious than you think.
What the law says… even if it is not written directly
Although the road code explicitly does not refer to “towels” or “pieces of clothing” as prohibited objects, Article 11 determines that “the driver must ensure, before and during the march, that the vehicle is able to circulate safely.” The standard is comprehensive and includes everything that can compromise vehicle control or perception of what is going on on the road.
This article includes the obligation to keep the field of vision cleared. Therefore, if an agent of the authority understands that visibility is affected, even slightly, can act according to the infraction. The auto frog explains that in these cases it is common for the agent to advise the immediate removal of objects, but can also raise a self -infringement, especially if there is recurrence.
The National Road Safety Authority has been reinforcing awareness campaigns directed to situations that go beyond the use of the mobile phone or seat belt, pointing out the presence of loose objects as a silent risk.
Simple care that prevents headaches
By habit, routine or oblivion, many conductors keep objects that, although they seem harmless, can compromise visibility. Gymnasium bags, bulky coats, blankets or cliffs in family cars are frequent examples.
The best solution remains the use of organizing holders or organizing bags attached to the back of the front seats. These measurements prevent objects from being loose and ensuring that the rear view remains clean.
If you are stopped in a STOP operation and the agent finds that visibility is compromised, even partially, the justification that “it is just a nightgown” may not be sufficient. As it refers to, before the law, the responsibility is always the driver.
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