Drivers warned of hidden fines for everyday mistakes

Drivers across Ireland could be unknowingly racking up penalty points and fines for everyday mistakes, from ignoring Garda signals to parking in dangerous spots. Van insurance experts at Chill have listed some lesser-known rules to make drivers aware of the potential offences they may be unknowingly committing.

1. Drivers could face a €120 fine for ignoring vehicle length or width signs when their vehicle exceeds the limit

Offence: Driving beyond a maximum vehicle length or width sign when your vehicle exceeds the displayed limit

Penalty: 1 penalty point and €60 fine, rising to 3 points and up to €120 if unpaid or taken to court.

Drivers should know that driving past a sign showing a maximum vehicle length or width, when their vehicle is too large, is a simple mistake that can lead to a fine.

Chill comments, “These signs are there because the road ahead may not be suitable for large vehicles, often due to sharp bends, narrow lanes, or built-up residential areas. To avoid penalties and ensure road safety, always check vehicle length restrictions, especially when planning routes through unfamiliar or rural areas. This is particularly important for van drivers where the length and width of the vehicle can sometimes be more unconventional.”

2. “Failing to yield” could land drivers 4 penalty points and a fine of €160

Offence: Failure to yield

Penalty: 2 penalty points and €80 fine, rising to 4 points and up to €160 if unpaid or taken to court.

“Failing to yield essentially means not giving right of way when you need to, which can lead to collisions and obstructions. This often happens at junctions, roundabouts, or where yield signs are in place. Always watch for road markings and signs, and give way when necessary.”

3. Failing to obey a Garda signal could see drivers receive a €160 fine

Offence: Failure to act in accordance with a Garda signal

Penalty: 1 penalty point and €80 fine, rising to 3 points and up to €160 if unpaid or taken to court.

An Garda Síochána are responsible for enforcing road traffic law and keeping the public safe. Failing to obey their instructions can cause confusion, accidents, or obstruct emergency situations.

Examples of disobeying a Garda signal include:

• Not stopping when signaled to pull over
• Ignoring a hand signal or verbal instruction
• Proceeding when told to wait
• Failing to follow directions during a road closure or diversion

If a Garda gives a signal or instruction, you must follow it immediately and safely.

4. Parking a vehicle in a dangerous position could lead to 3 penalty points and a €160 fine

Offence: Parking a vehicle in a dangerous position

Penalty: 3 penalty points and €80 fine, rising to 5 points and up to €160 if unpaid or taken to court.

Parking in a dangerous position puts other road users at risk and can obstruct traffic or visibility, especially on bends, near junctions, or in poorly lit areas.

“To avoid fines and protect others on the road, always ensure your vehicle is parked safely and does not pose a hazard to drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians. Never park at a corner, a bend, the brow of a hill or on a hump-back bridge; where there is a sharp dip in the road. While all drivers should be mindful of this, it’s especially important for van drivers who might stop frequently for deliveries, making rest stops or parking in unfamiliar or awkward locations. Even short stops in the wrong place can create serious hazards. Always take a moment to find a safe, legal spot as it protects you and everyone else on the road.”

5. Failure to obey requirements regarding the reversing of vehicles could land a hefty fine

Offence: Failure to obey requirements regarding reversing of vehicles (e.g. reversing from a minor road onto a main road)

Penalty: 1 penalty point and €60 fine, increasing to 3 points and up to €120 if unpaid or taken to court.

“When reversing, always check carefully in all directions for pedestrians and traffic. Give way to other traffic and pedestrians, and never reverse from a minor road onto a major road, as this is unsafe. If reversing from a major road onto a minor road, wait until it’s safe, reverse slowly, and position your vehicle correctly before rejoining. For van drivers, it's important to remember that longer vehicles often have larger blind spots, need more space to manoeuvre, and may not have a rear-view mirror. Take extra care when reversing, especially in tight or busy areas where visibility is limited.”

6. Using a commercial vehicle without a CRW could land drivers 5 penalty points and a court fine

Offence: Using a commercial vehicle without a certificate of roadworthiness (CRW)

Penalty: Mandatory court appearance with 5 penalty points on conviction and a court-imposed fine.

“The CRW confirms that a vehicle has passed essential safety checks. Without it, the vehicle may be unsafe to drive and could be a risk to other road users. This offence applies to all commercial vehicles, including vans, so make sure your vehicle is tested and certified before hitting the road.”

7. Using a modified vehicle with an inaccurate authorisation plate could land drivers 5 penalty points and a €120 fine

Offence: Driving a modified vehicle without updating the authorisation plate

Penalty: 3 penalty points and €60 fine, rising to 5 points and €120 if taken to court.

“If you make changes to your vehicle, like adding equipment or altering its structure, you must update the authorisation plate to match. This plate shows the vehicle’s key specs. If it’s wrong, it can cause safety problems and break the law.”