Gov’t may consider reducing traffic fines, PM

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has said the government is considering the possibility of reducing traffic fines after reviewing data that showed no clear link between higher penalties and improved road safety statistics.

Speaking at a briefing on Tuesday, Kobakhidze said authorities had analysed approximately one year's worth of data to assess whether increased fines had led to a reduction in traffic violations and accidents.

"We reviewed around a year's worth of data and found that, unfortunately, there is no direct correlation between increased fines and improved statistics," Kobakhidze said.

He added the findings raised questions about the effectiveness of higher penalties as a tool for improving compliance with traffic regulations.

Kobakhidze noted that fines placed a financial burden on citizens and said the government was therefore open to discussing possible reductions.

"Taking into account that fines are a burden on the population, we can absolutely consider such an option and discuss reducing fines," he said.

The prime minister added that any potential changes would require cooperation with parliament and further work on the issue.