Forgot to pay? Traffic fine will soon no longer rise 50 percent immediately

From fine to towering debt

Currently, it works simply but strictly: a traffic fine must be paid within eight weeks. If not, the amount increases by half. If payment is again not made, the fine is tripled. What begins as a hefty slap on the wrist can quickly turn into a sum that is barely bearable. People on low incomes are particularly hard hit by this, judges warned earlier.

Why a reminder?

Outgoing Minister David van Weel wants to prevent people from immediately ending up in that increase carousel. A simple letter can be enough to remind someone that a traffic fine is still outstanding. That provides an opportunity to still pay or make an arrangement. The Central Judicial Collection Agency (CJIB) is taking on the trial and will study for a year and a half whether it actually has an effect.

Earnings model

The problem is that the increases generate a lot of revenue for the government. So it’s a nice revenue model. Fewer raises automatically means less money in the treasury. Previous calculations showed that this could amount to tens of millions of euros. This is why the current increment rates simply remain – only an extra step is built in before they are applied.

Wondering what you’ll lose for an average traffic violation? Then read: Traffic fines 2025 more expensive: rates listed

See also: Will the electric police car be a success? – OUT AND ABOUT WITH THE POLICE! – AutoRAI TV