New Road Safety Authority (RSA) data shows that 77,800 commercial vehicles failed their Commercial Vehicle Roadworthiness Test (CVRT) last year, with vans among those affected, largely due to tyre-related issues.
With van drivers already under pressure to stay on the road, these kinds of faults don’t just lead to failed tests, they can also result in penalty points, fines and even court appearances if picked up during roadside checks.
To help drivers, the experts at Chill Insurance have put together new data and expert commentary, highlighting the most common vehicle condition offences that could catch Irish drivers out this spring.
You can read the full piece here: https://www.chill.ie/blog/five-vehicle-condition-offences-irish-van-drivers-need-to-watch-out-for-this-spring/
Five van faults that could land Irish drivers with fines and penalty points
| Offence | Penalty Points | Potential Fine | Why It’s a Spring Risk |
| Using a vehicle with defective or worn tyres | 2 on payment, 4 on conviction | €80, rising to €160 if unpaid | Winter potholes and wet roads reduce tread depth and damage sidewalls, affecting grip and braking |
| Driving a dangerously defective vehicle | 5 on conviction (court offence) | Court-imposed fine | Brake, steering or structural issues can worsen over winter, especially for high-mileage vans |
| Failing to repair a known dangerous defect | Points on conviction + court appearance | Court-imposed fine | Continuing to drive after a defect has been identified is treated as a separate offence |
| Using a commercial vehicle without a valid CRW | 5 on conviction (mandatory court appearance) | Court-imposed fine | Renewal dates can be overlooked during busy work periods |
| Driving without required lighting | 2 on payment, 4 on conviction | €80, rising to €160 if unpaid | Bulbs and electrical systems can deteriorate over winter; changing daylight hours can mask faults |
Julie-Ann Brannick, Chill’s Customer Care Team Lead Commenting on the risks facing drivers this spring, said: “Spring is the time to catch those issues before they escalate. A simple walkaround check, booking in a service, or confirming that your paperwork, including your Certificate of Roadworthiness, is up to date can prevent unnecessary stress later on. Everyday checks; tyres, lights, brakes and paperwork, can make the difference between staying on the road earning a living and facing avoidable penalties, court appearances or costly downtime.”