28,000 euros fine: Drivers discovered secret radar traps in Italy!

28,000 euros fine: Drivers discovered secret radar traps in Italy!

In Italy, a case causes a sensation that puts the strict speed rules and the controversy around radar traps into the light. Andrea Ferretto, a driver from Nice Monferrato, has accumulated an incredible 28,000 euros within six months. This happened, while he kept walking past an inconspicuous radar trap that was hidden behind a hedge and a curve. The speed limit at this point is 70 km/h.

The 33-year-old Ferretto worked for a security company in a supermarket during this time and stated that they always only drove too quickly. The fine notices only met him a few months later, initially at the usual height, before climbing the total amount of 28,000 euros. This sum massively exceeds its monthly content of 1,100 euros. Due to the high financial burden, Ferretto is now planning to find a solution with the help of a lawyer after not making an objection to the notices.

The flood of the speed traps in Italy

Italy has the highest density in Europe with over 11,000 inpatient speed traps, while Germany has only 4,700 such speed camera. In March 2024, the traffic authorities tightened the rules on speed control, which results in another shaft of fines. There is criticism not only of the high number of speed camera systems, but also of their often poor visibility and inadequate signage, which can bring drivers into trouble.

The "Fleximan" collective has started to remove speed camera systems as a protest. New regulations have been presented that prescribe all municipalities to obtain permits for the installation of radar cameras. This regulation also requires proof that radar cameras are necessary to reduce speed -related accidents. In addition, lightning boxes have to be announced, with different distances being set for different street categories.

fines and other regulations

The financial consequences of a speed crossing can be sensitive. In Italy, the fine for a speed crossing of more than 10 km/h is up to 700 euros. In the event of repeated violations within a year, the penalties can even be up to 880 euros. For other traffic offenses, such as red light violations or driving under the influence of alcohol, there may also be high fines that can be up to 4,000 euros. The income from fines is significant, with the 20 largest cities in Italy generating over 75 million euros in 2022, with Florence, which achieved over 23 million euros alone.

The strict rules and high fines also skill lightly on traffic monitoring in Italy. Despite the high number of flashes, there are also demands for clearer communication and visibility of the flash systems. Andrea Ferretto is now confronted with an enormous financial burden that brings him to the brink of his possibilities, while the discussion about the effectiveness and fairness of the lightning systems in Italy continues to stop.