A driver in Switzerland has been handed the country’s most expensive speeding fine to date—a staggering £800,000—after being caught racing through the streets of Lausanne at nearly three times the legal limit.
The eye-watering penalty was calculated based on Switzerland’s unique income-based fine system, where traffic violations are tied to the offender’s wealth. The motorist, whose identity remains undisclosed, was reportedly driving at 137 km/h (85 mph) in a 50 km/h (31 mph) zone.
How Switzerland’s Income-Based Fines Work
Unlike fixed penalties in many countries, Swiss traffic fines are determined by the driver’s financial situation. The system, designed to ensure fairness, means wealthier individuals face significantly higher penalties for breaking the law.
In this case, the offender’s substantial income led to the unprecedented fine, which dwarfs previous records. The previous highest recorded speeding fine in Switzerland was around £190,000, issued in 2010.
Public Reaction and Legal Precedent
The case has sparked debate over the effectiveness of income-based penalties. Supporters argue that such fines act as a stronger deterrent for high-earning drivers, while critics question whether they disproportionately target the wealthy.
Local authorities in Lausanne have defended the penalty, stating that excessive speeding poses a severe risk to public safety. "The law applies equally to everyone, regardless of their financial status," a police spokesperson said.
Switzerland’s strict traffic enforcement has long been known for its hefty fines, but this latest case sets a new benchmark—proving that even the wealthiest drivers aren’t above the law.
