TRAFFIC FINES BOLSTER BUDGETS
The economic downturn has put loads of stress on state and municipal budgets across the country, and with strong public pressure against raising taxes lawmakers are raising traffic fines instead.
Communities and state governments are looking to balance their budgets on the backs of drivers, using the boost in revenue from traffic tickets to help pay their bills.
“Police are having a quick trigger finger,” says Gary Biller, executive director of the National Motorists Association. “There’s less tolerance, and tickets are being issued much quicker. We know the pressure being put on governments, but it doesn’t justify what’s going on.”
Speed limits were originally intended to conserve fuel during the energy crisis of the 70s, but have evolved into a $4.5-$6 billion industry according to NMA estimates.
FoxNews.com recently reported that looming budget gaps have turned the roadways into a jungle for motorists, and cite the following examples of over-exuberant penalties across the country:
* Parking in a fire lane in Pensacola, Fla., will cost you $100, up from $10.
* Georgia recently added a $200 surcharge for anyone driving more than 85 miles per hour.
* Colorado increased fines for speeding from $50 to $135.
* Portland, Ore., increased fines for parking in a handicapped spot from $190 to $450.
* Parking fines in Boston doubled to $40.
* Speeding in Florida just 10 miles over the legal limit will cost you $196, up from $154.
Despite the increase in traffic citations, along with increased fines and fees, an estimated 95% of motorists simply pay up and don’t bother to fight their tickets in court.
