In the world of road fines, drivers tend to associate the highest values with speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol. However, the most expensive infraction provided for in the Highway Code is another and continues to surprise even those who have been driving for decades. The maximum fine can reach 3,500 euros and applies to anyone driving a vehicle for which they do not have an appropriate license.
According to information released by entities such as the National Road Safety Authority, this continues to be one of the behaviors considered to pose the greatest risk to road safety.
The most expensive infraction of the Highway Code
Driving a vehicle whose category does not correspond to the driver’s license is the infraction that generates the highest fine for ordinary citizens. Publications specialized in automobile legislation explain that, according to article 123 of the Highway Code, anyone who only has an AM or A1 license and drives a higher category vehicle risks a fine of between 700 and 3,500 euros.
T license holders face values between 120 and 600 euros, while in other situations where the license is unsuitable the range is between 500 and 2,500 euros.
There are, however, cases in which the situation goes beyond the scope of administrative offenses. According to the same source, driving without ever having possessed a valid license, or with an expired or impounded license, may constitute the crime of driving without a legal license, as provided for in Decree-Law No. 2/98.
In these circumstances, the penalty can be up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 240 days, with arrest in the act being possible, in light of criminal procedural rules.
Other fines that also weigh on your pocket
While this infraction leads the values applied to the individual driver, several other situations provided for in the Highway Code can reach equally significant amounts.
Excess weight or dimensions without special authorization can result in fines of 600 to 3,000 euros, an amount that is repeated when the driver does not present the respective authorization.
Driving a vehicle without valid registration is another infraction with a significant impact. According to the legislation, fines vary between 600 and 3,000 euros, decreasing to 300 to 1,500 euros when it comes to mopeds or agricultural machinery.
The lack of mandatory insurance continues to be one of the most monitored infractions and costs between 500 and 2,500 euros, as established in article 150 of the Highway Code.
The highest limits for speeding can lead to fines of 2,500 euros, especially when the driver substantially exceeds the permitted values on motorways or within towns.
Driving the wrong way, especially on expressways, involves fines of between 500 and 2,500 euros. The use of devices to detect or disrupt radars is also subject to fines of up to 2,500 euros, accompanied by seizure of the equipment.
Higher fines that do not fall on the driver
There are higher fines than those applied to the driver, but aimed at manufacturers, importers or sellers. According to the legislation, placing non-approved vehicles, systems or components on the market can result in fines of between 1,200 and 6,000 euros for companies, and between 600 and 3,000 euros for individuals. These infractions also imply loss of the seized objects.
Safety first
The most penalized infractions are those that pose serious risks to road safety. ANSR recalls that the objective of high fines is to deter dangerous behavior, reduce accidents and reinforce the protection of all public road users.
And, although speeding and alcohol remain among the most serious infractions, it is the lack of adequate license that remains at the top of the table of fines imposed on drivers.
Also read:
