Vacation abroad: Watch out for these expensive fines!

Vacation abroad: Watch out for these expensive fines!

Holidays in other European countries can quickly become expensive for drivers if they do not adhere to the traffic rules there. The ADAC warns that fines in many countries are significantly higher than in Germany. This is particularly true in Scandinavia, the Netherlands and Switzerland, where sometimes high penalties are imposed for even minor traffic violations.

For example, the fines for speeding by 20 km/h are 610 euros in Norway, 225 euros in the Netherlands and 190 euros in Switzerland. For comparison: In Germany, the penalties in such cases only start at 60 euros. Things also get expensive when it comes to alcohol violations. In Denmark, Finland and Sweden, the penalties are income-related and are therefore often extremely high. Switzerland imposes a fine of 635 euros at 0.5 per mille, while Norway punishes 560 euros from 0.2 per mille. In Italy the fine is 0.5 per mille at 545 euros, in Germany you would be asked to pay from 500 euros.

Major traffic violations and their penalties

Another aspect that can cost travelers in the EU dearly is illegal parking. In the Netherlands, fines can start at 120 euros, while in Estonia, fines can go up to 200 euros. Improper use of a smartphone while driving is punished with 875 euros in Norway and 430 euros in the Netherlands. In Germany, the fine in such cases starts at 100 euros.

For holidaymakers who do not want to expose themselves to unexpectedly high fines in the EU, there is a helpful tip from ADAC lawyers: In some countries, discounts can be granted for the immediate payment of fines. For example, in Spain the discount is 50 percent if payment is made within 20 days, in Italy it is 30 percent if payment is made within five days.

Cross-border enforcement of fines

An important piece of information that travelers should know is that fines starting at 70 euros can also be enforced in Germany. From 2024, this also applies to penalties from Switzerland. The Federal Office of Justice is responsible for enforcement in Germany. So far, however, points or driving bans remain limited to the respective country. However, the EU is working on creating regulations that will enable driving bans to be recognized across Europe.

There is currently no common catalog of fines within the EU because national regulations vary greatly. However, there are EU directives that set minimum standards for road safety. Agreements such as the Vienna Convention of 1968 aim to standardize traffic signs, although country-specific regulations remain in place.

In summary, it is essential for holidaymakers to find out about the relevant traffic regulations and possible fines in their destination countries before traveling. Good preparation can save a lot of money.

For more information on fines and traffic rules in Europe, offers The West comprehensive insights while Catalog of fines provides a detailed overview of the different penalties in the participating countries.