Parking or stopping on the side of the road is only safe and permitted in specific circumstances. Although many drivers resort to this practice in unexpected situations, doing so improperly can lead to serious consequences, both legally and financially.
Rules for driving on motorways
Motorways were designed to ensure fast and safe traffic flow. On these routes, slow vehicles, such as mopeds or tractors, are not permitted, nor is access to pedestrians or improvised crossings permitted. To maintain this safety, there are specific rules that all drivers must comply with.
According to the Automóvel Club de Portugal (ACP), it is prohibited to stop, park or drive on the side of the motorway, except in areas clearly indicated for this. Failure to respect this rule may result in significant fines and other sanctions. Many drivers are unaware of the seriousness of this infraction, making mistakes that end up costing them dearly.
Furthermore, it is mandatory to comply with speed limits. For light vehicles, the maximum speed is 120 km/h and the minimum speed is 50 km/h. Whenever possible, drivers should stay in the right lane and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
The Highway Code considers that any stopping or parking outside designated areas constitutes a serious offense. If the stop occurs on the carriageway, the infraction is classified as very serious.
Legal consequences and fines
Parking or stopping improperly on a motorway can lead to fines between €120 and €600 in the case of serious infractions. If the stop occurs on the carriageway, considered a very serious infraction, the fine can range from €250 to €1,250.
In addition to the fine, the infraction may involve disqualification from driving for a period that varies depending on the severity. For serious infractions, the disqualification ranges from 1 to 12 months, while for very serious infractions it can last between 2 and 24 months. There is also a loss of points on the driving license: 2 points for illegally stopping on the shoulder and 4 points for stopping on the carriageway.
Exceptions for emergency situations
The law allows the use of the verge only in cases of emergency. If the vehicle breaks down and it is not possible to continue driving, the driver can resort to the roadside, always ensuring maximum safety. It is mandatory to correctly signal the situation and protect all occupants.
Before stopping, you must gradually reduce your speed, move to the shoulder and, when exiting the vehicle, wear a reflective vest, put on your warning triangle and turn on your emergency lights.
Personal situations, such as answering calls or waiting for someone, are not considered emergencies, so parking in these cases continues to be subject to a fine.
Illegal use of the verge to escape traffic
Some drivers use the shoulder to avoid traffic jams, a prohibited practice and classified as a very serious infraction by article 172 of the Highway Code. The penalty includes a fine of between €60 and €300, loss of 4 points on your license and, in certain cases, disqualification from driving for 2 to 24 months.
When re-entering the road is necessary after an emergency stop, it must be done with caution. The ideal is to gain speed on the shoulder before returning to the lane, avoiding sudden movements that could put other drivers at risk.
How to dispute a fine
If you are fined for stopping or parking improperly on the shoulder, you have up to 15 working days to present your defense to the National Road Safety Authority (ANSR). The defense must be made in writing and may request the suspension or reduction of the driving disqualification sanction, depending on the severity of the infraction.
Complying with the rules is essential
According to , respecting traffic rules on motorways is vital for everyone’s safety. Stopping or parking improperly increases the risk of accidents and puts other drivers and passengers at risk. Following the rules and only using the shoulder in justified situations is essential to ensure safe driving.
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