Analysis of Level of the Traffic Fines through International Comparison

Punishment for violations of road traffic laws is mostly imposed in the form of financial sanctions such as fines. While Korea's per capita gross product has increased by 264% over the past 30 years, fines for violating traffic laws have not changed, and as a result, some point out that the unrealistic financial penalties level does not function properly as a deterrent to violations. Accordingly, this study attempted to compare the fines for traffic law violations in major countries and Korea and suggest an appropriate increase level. Since there are differences in income scale, prices, and currency values from country to country, to control this, economic indicators such as GDP per capita, minimum wage, comparative price level, and Big Mac index were used to compare financial penalties levels under the assumption that income and price levels were the same. As a result of the study, it was confirmed that, except for drunk driving, the financial penalties level in Korea is at least 2 to 3 times lower, and in particular, the financial penalties for speeding is about 5 to 7 times lower. In light of these results, it seems that the level of fines for violations of traffic laws in Korea needs to be reexamined. However, the low level of sanctions does not necessarily represent the need for strengthening regulations, so it is time for additional research and social discussion to establish appropriate measures to increase fines in the future.