(07-19-2019, 07:30 PM)ijmorlan Wrote:(07-19-2019, 07:22 PM)ac3r Wrote: Honestly...it should be more.. If fare evading can get you a ticket of over $200, hitting a train and costing the city so much money in damage and costs to remedy that needs to carry pretty big consequences. I don't know how we do it here in Toronto when this happens, but there is probably a way bigger penalty.
The key is to fine the perpetrators of near misses, not severely punish those who are actually involved in collisions. Most of the people who collided probably thought they were driving OK; hearing that penalties were being increased for hitting the LRT would barely register, because they’re not planning to do that. By contrast, starting to receive a series of $100 fine notices in the mail would very quickly make them realize that they have to shape up (or switch to riding transit).
Also, the fines should be income-scaled. There are poor people for whom a $100 fine would be a crushing financial blow, while even a $1000 fine wouldn’t be a serious disincentive for many rich people. Maybe the greater of 1% of the value of the car, or 1/1000 of the person’s yearly income.
I know in some Euro countries fines are based on income. That said, if they can't afford the fine, they shouldn't drive. Just have the fines posted for the illegal maneuvers.
I guess my point is, if a $100 fine was a crushing financial blow, then what about maintaining your vehicle? New brakes, for example, would cost a lot more that $100. Though I do suppose some people don't care if they run their car into the ground literally, hopefully they don't kill any innocents on the way.
As for people with holes in their pockets, I suppose you could have a escalating fine based on plate number. Though if the police decide to enforce at some point, then start giving people points, eventually they'd be off the road.