'There must be logic in the amount of fines'

In Azerbaijan, fines for speeding on the roads are set to increase.  In this regard, amendments are being made to the Code of Administrative Offences. Under the proposed amendments, drivers exceeding the speed limit by 41-60 km/h will face a fine of 200 Manats, while those exceeding 61 km/h and above will be fined 300 Manats. Currently, fines of 150 and 250 Manats are imposed for these violations.

Additionally, drivers traveling in the wrong direction on one-way roads will face a fine of 150 Manats, compared to the current fine of 100 Manats. These draft amendments have passed the first reading in the Milli Majlis through a vote on June 6.

Deputy Aydin Huseynov explained to the Turan news agency that the increase in fines is primarily aimed at safeguarding the health and safety of citizens, given the analysis showing a rise in road accidents and fatalities. The proposed law aims to act as a deterrent and emphasizes the well-being of citizens rather than serving as a revenue-generating measure for the budget.

Economist Rashad Hasanov supports the concept of imposing hefty fines to discourage traffic violations, citing the experience of other developed countries where fines are set at high amounts. He argues that violations should not be normalized and that substantial fines can effectively deter them. Hasanov notes that violations resulting in accidents and loss of life cannot be measured in monetary terms equivalent to an average salary.

However, he acknowledges that the current system in Azerbaijan may facilitate bribery opportunities due to the increased fine amounts. He warns that if the system is not transparent and free from corruption, the higher fines can exacerbate the issue.

Economist Natig Jafarli expresses skepticism about the government's sincerity in addressing the issue, stating that the focus should be on improving road infrastructure, speed regulations, and road quality to encourage compliance rather than solely relying on fines. In an interview with RadioAzaldig, he highlighted  inconsistent speed limits on certain roads as a contributing factor to accidents and argues for a comprehensive approach to address these issues.

Jafarli suggests that fines should be proportional to factors such as minimum wages, median salaries, and minimum pensions in the country. He warns that imposing a single exorbitant fine may lead citizens to refuse to pay fines altogether if they perceive them as unjust or burdensome.