The most common fines while driving are speeding or not wearing a seat belt. However, other major fines include not having a valid ITV, and alcohol or drug abuse where the driver is over the limit.
Especially at this time of year, it may be tempting to have a couple of drinks with friends or work colleagues. However, is it worth the risk?
What can you do?
Be the nominated driver and drink mocktails. There are also now many well-known brands introducing alcohol-free spirits.
If you think you might be tempted, leave your car keys behind the bar, and tell them you will collect them the next day.
Ensure you know where you can reach a taxi nearby or save their number on your mobile.
Download an UBER app.
The following is as stated on the official DGT website
Sanctions
Fines are usually between €500 and €1000, however, depending on the seriousness of the infringement, they could be higher.
Points
From 4 to 6 points
What the law says
The maximum alcohol level for novice and professional drivers is 0.15 mg / l in exhaled air. For the rest of the drivers, it is 0.25 mg / l and, if it exceeds 0.60 mg / l, it is a crime. Of other drugs, any presence in the body is grounds for sanction.
Drink driving is deadly
Did you know that one in three deceased drivers had used alcohol and/or drugs?
ITV
This is like the MOT in the UK. However, a sticker must be displayed on the window of the vehicle. Current data confirms there are many people who travel without an up-to-date ITV. However, this is a mandatory process for all vehicles. And without it, you are breaking the law. Without an ITV your car may not be road-worthy, and therefore, could be a danger to other road users or pedestrians.
Also, no ITV could put the environment at risk. Moreover, it is possible a car with an expired or ITV is an old one with high emission levels.
Furthermore, not having an up-to-date ITV is something the DGT wants to clamp down on. Therefore, they expect the number of fines for this to increase.
According to the DGT, an estimated 4 out of 10 vehicles, (40%) commute daily without a current ITV.
Cameras
More cameras are now being used specifically to search for vehicles not displaying a current ITV.
These cameras are capable of reading and registering license plates.
Insurance
If you are involved in an accident, you will most likely find your insurance will be invalid and will therefore not cover any injury or damage.
