The last few weeks of bad weather have left a trail of road closures across the country. Between floods, landslides and submerged roads, warnings from authorities are multiplying for the total or partial interruption of road traffic. Still, cases continue to arise of drivers ignoring signs and proceeding onto closed roads, putting themselves at risk and risking fines that can reach several hundred euros.
One of these episodes was reported by the regional newspaper O Almeirinense, which reported the case of a motorist in Benfica do Ribatejo who had to be rescued after driving onto a road cut off due to floods. The driver ignored the existing signs and ended up being immobilized, forcing firefighters to intervene.
Faced with situations like this, Notícias ao Minuto analyzed the applicable legal framework and sought clarification from the National Road Safety Authority, although there has been no response so far.
What does the Highway Code say about closed roads?
A careful reading of article 9 of the Highway Code allows us to understand that the suspension or conditioning of traffic can only be ordered for reasons of safety, serious emergency or the carrying out of works, as well as for the conservation of pavements, installations or works of art.
According to the same standard, these restrictions may cover only a part of the road or apply to certain types of vehicles, depending on their weight or dimensions. The law also provides that traffic may be suspended whenever there is a justified reason, as long as alternative routes are ensured.
Although the Highway Code does not explicitly detail the sanctions for those who disrespect a closed road, the legal framework does not end there.
Fines provided for in the Traffic Sign Regulations
As Notícias ao Minuto explains, the applicable penalties are found in the Traffic Sign Regulations. Failure to comply with prohibition signs, such as those marking closed roads, is punishable by fines of between 60 and 300 euros.
The same value applies to the infringement of obligation signs, in accordance with article 29 of the regulation. In practice, a road closed to traffic must be properly signposted, and this signage is legally binding on drivers.
Specific restrictions on certain vehicles
Article 10 of the Highway Code also regulates the temporary or permanent ban on the circulation of certain vehicles. This can be applied when there are abnormal traffic circumstances, covering certain categories of vehicles or vehicles that transport specific goods.
In these cases, the infractions are considered more serious. Fines can vary between 150 and 750 euros, and it is also determined that the vehicle cannot continue to be driven.
What if a rescue is needed?
In cases where the infraction requires the intervention of emergency services, as happened in Benfica do Ribatejo, the costs may not be limited to a simple fine. In accordance with usual practice, drivers may be asked to bear the costs associated with the departure of emergency vehicles and the kilometers traveled.
These values vary depending on the corporation and type of intervention, but represent an additional burden that can make the decision to ignore a cut road even more costly.
A simple rule that avoids greater risks
The authorities are clear on an essential message. If a road is closed to traffic, the prohibition must be respected, regardless of the urgency of the journey or personal perception of the risk.
As , a closed road does not meet adequate safety conditions and can hide serious dangers, from hidden holes to water currents or unstable flooring. Ultimately, the cost can be much higher than a fine, involving serious material damage or risks to physical integrity and life.
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