Wealth-Based Fines in Switzerland Slam One of the Country’s Richest for Traffic Violation
A French tycoon and one of Switzerland’s wealthiest residents has been fined a staggering 90,000 Swiss francs (₹97 lakh / $110,000) for speeding—thanks to Switzerland’s wealth-based traffic penalty system.
Key Details of the Case
- The man was caught driving 77 km/h in a 50 km/h zone in Lausanne.
- He was penalized for 27 km/h over the limit.
- Under Swiss law, repeat offenders and the wealthy face heavier fines based on income and assets.
Why the Huge Fine?
- The offender is among the top 300 richest people in Switzerland, with wealth in the hundreds of millions of dollars.
- Vaud canton law calculates fines based on income, net worth, and financial situation.
- He must pay 10,000 francs upfront and could be liable for an additional 80,000 francs if he reoffends in 3 years.
Switzerland’s Wealth-Based Fine System
- Not unique to Switzerland—Germany, France, Austria, and Nordic countries have similar systems.
- Ensures equity in punishment across income levels.
- For minor crimes like speeding or DUI, wealthy individuals may pay tens of thousands, while lower-income violators may face alternatives like jail time.
Did You Know?
- In 2010, a Ferrari-driving millionaire in Switzerland was fined $290,000 for speeding—the highest on record.
- Even a police officer was fined in 2016 for speeding during a chase.
Switzerland’s wealth-based penalty system may seem extreme, but it ensures that justice scales with financial privilege. In a country where income inequality exists even amid widespread affluence, such laws aim to maintain equality before the law, no matter how deep your pockets are.
As this case shows, speeding isn’t just costly—it can be very costly if you’re rich.
