In total, 812,206 administrative offence proceedings were launched against drivers with unpaid toll fees, most of them linked to the former SCUT roads (motorways previously free of charge). While the number of infractions has slightly declined, the drop is minimal, with only 1.03% lower than in 2023, equating to 8,478 fewer cases.

Experts suggest this small decrease may reflect the discount schemes that were still in place for the SCUT roads last year. As of January 2024, tolls were removed altogether on seven concessions located in the country’s interior and in the Algarve, in a bid to ease financial pressure on drivers in lower-density regions.

Despite this, the consumer rights group DECO continues to receive a steady flow of complaints from motorists over toll-related fines. A spokesperson for the organisation said that there has been no noticeable improvement or significant decline in the number of toll-related grievances in recent months.

DECO is calling for a reform of the toll payment system, citing concerns about a lack of transparency and excessive penalties. The group has also urged the government to consider revising the formula used to calculate fines, which many consumers view as disproportionate, especially in cases involving minimal original toll amounts.

The issue remains a source of public frustration, particularly for drivers using toll roads without a valid electronic pass or those unaware of non-traditional payment procedures.

As motorway usage patterns evolve and the country continues to re-evaluate toll policies, pressure is mounting on authorities to create a more user-friendly and equitable system for both regular commuters and occasional drivers.