While many UAE motorists see the new traffic rules and fines as a good measure towards ensuring enhanced road safety, some feel the penalties are hefty and way too high. Well, committing traffic offences that can endanger the lives of people are not justifiable at all.
And so the fines are quite reasonable when you consider the hazards that these offences pose. Even though the penalties can sometimes get exorbitant, it only takes an insight and proper perspective to realise their far-reaching benefits. Why do we say so? Just check out these speeding fines from other countries and you'll understand what we mean.
- UAE traffic fines
United States - $2,500 (Dh9,000)
While the United States is known for wide and open roads, speeding fines are strictly implemented by various states. The state of Virginia had a law that allowed courts to impose fines up to $2,500 on motorists who drove more than 10mph above the legal limit. Jail time was also included as part of the expensive ticket.
Iceland - $2,700 (Dh9,900)
According to Autoblog, this European country justifies its expensive speeding tickets because of the dangers of driving on roads that can quickly turn from tarmac to gravel. The uneven road conditions often spell disaster to unruly motorists.
United Kingdom - $8,000 (Dh29,000)
Back in 2007, a motorist blazed along rural roads in a Porsche at 172mph. On top of the speeding ticket, he was also charged with reckless driving. At the end of it all, the motorist netted a fine of $8,000 plus 10 weeks in jail.
Canada - $25,000 (Dh91,000)
Canada, like the United States, is known for its straight and often empty highways. That is why many motorists have coughed up massive fines. In the province of Alberta, the maximum fine for speeding is a staggering $25,000.
Finland - $200,000 (Dh734,000)
Here's the thing: the way Finland and its neighbour Denmark levies fines is based on the annual income of the motorist who lands a ticket. That being said, records show that Jussi Salonoja, the heir to a European meatpacking business, earned $11.5 million worth of tickets in 2002. He was also fined for speeding. After days of calculation, the courts levied Salonoja with a $200,000 fine; and he was only driving at 50mph (on a 25mph road, that is).

source: Khaleejtimes