Drivers could be fined up to €320 for not preparing for these autumn driving risks

Chill Insurance reveals the risks drivers may face this autumn that could land them with unwanted fines and penalty points

• Irish drivers risk fines of up to €320 and five penalty points for failing to prepare for potential road risks this autumn
• Wet weather, wind and poor visibility can present new challenges for drivers and may require potential changes when driving
• Ignoring changing conditions could result in increased risks for both drivers and other vehicles

With the return of colder weather, dark nights and slippery surfaces, autumn signals a change in conditions that drivers need to adapt to when on the road. But what are the biggest risks that drivers should look out for, and which ones could produce an unwanted fine?

To find out, Chill Insurance has broken down some of the most costly autumnal driving fines, regardless of whether you're behind the wheel of a car or a van. They detail each potential scenario, the number of penalty points issued and the value of the fine received. Most importantly, they've also shared insight on how to avoid these.

Irish drivers risk unwanted fines of up to €320 and five penalty points with these autumn driving risks

Scenario: Failure to leave appropriate distance between you and the vehicle in front

Potential penalty: 3 points on payment, 5 on conviction. €160 paid in 28 days, €240 paid in next 28 days, €320 third payment option

Cold and wet weather can cause slippery conditions, with the likes of leaves and frost coating road surfaces. This means stopping distances between vehicles will need to double from the usual two-second gap to four seconds in order to prevent a collision. Failure to do so could cost drivers up to €320 and see them branded with five penalty points on their licence.

Scenario: Parking a vehicle in a dangerous position

Potential penalty: 3 points on payment, 5 on conviction. €80 paid in 28 days, €120 paid in next 28 days, €160 third payment option

In conditions like fog and heavy rain, choosing where to park will become an important decision throughout the autumn months. Drivers should avoid parking anywhere that could potentially cause obstruction or act as a hazard for other drivers or pedestrians. For van drivers, this is particularly important, as the height and size of vans can further reduce visibility for other road users. Make sure you're taking extra consideration when it comes to decreased visibility around junctions and busier roads.

Scenario: Using a vehicle with defective or worn tyres

Potential penalty: 2 points on payment, 4 on conviction. €80 paid in 28 days, €120 paid in next 28 days, €160 third payment option

This is something to be aware of all year round, but it becomes particularly important in the colder months. Drivers need to ensure that their vehicle is equipped with tyres that have the right tread depth for the change in weather. The legal minimum is 1.6mm, with around 3mm recommended for wet weather conditions.

These checks can also provide the chance to evaluate the need for new winter tyres, in order to avoid further complications later in the year.

Scenario: Not adhering to lighting-up hours

Potential penalty: 2 points on payment, 4 on conviction. €60 paid in 28 days

'Lighting up' hours begin half an hour after sunrise and half an hour before sunset and require drivers to use dipped headlights to combat potential visibility risks in seasons with changing weather, such as during the autumn months. Choosing not to use them is classed as an offence and would see a €60 fine and up to four penalty points issued.

Scenario: Dangerous overtaking

Potential penalty: 3 points on payment, 5 on conviction. €80 paid in 28 days, €120 paid in next 28 days, €160 third payment option

The Irish autumn weather makes overtaking particularly difficult thanks to high winds, decreased visibility and slippery surfaces. Larger, more high-sided vehicles, such as HGVs, also become more difficult to pass and can be hazardous because they block the wind, leaving the potential for an unexpected surge when you pull back in.

Drivers should consider keeping longer distances between vehicles and attempt overtaking more cautiously, sometimes even avoiding it altogether if conditions are poor. Van drivers themselves should also be mindful of how their vehicle's size can impact other motorists, especially in windy or low-visibility conditions.

Ian O'Reilly, Head of Personal Line Sales at Chill Insurance said: "The varying weather conditions across the autumn months can present a number of potential challenges on the road for drivers.

"That's why it's important to make sure your vehicle is equipped to the correct legal standard and that you follow the regulations and recommended advice in order to avoid both fines and penalty points on your licence.

"Choosing the right van insurance can also provide cover should your vehicle come into complications with the ever-changing and often unpredictable autumn weather conditions."

Sources and methodology: Chill reviewed information from the Road Safety Authority to compile a list of fines and penalties that drivers may be subject to.